Simulation-Based Training for Ultrasound-Guided Central Venous Catheter Placement in Pediatric Patients

Central venous catheter (CVC) placement in pediatric patients is lifesaving but associated with complications. To standardize training and decrease complications, we developed a simulation-based ultrasound-guided CVC placement training program for pediatric critical care providers.

We implemented our CVC placement training program with several groups of learners, including pediatric critical care medicine (PCCM) fellows, pediatric emergency medicine fellows, and PCCM advanced practice providers. Learners completed prework assignments and a knowledge test before participation. The session started with group activities including a learner-led CVC site-selection debate and a team-based competition to list the steps in CVC placement. Next, the learners rotated between four stations for deliberate practice on separate components of CVC placement. Finally, they performed CVC placement on a task trainer. Evaluation included assessment of learner confidence, a knowledge test, and measurement of procedure time before and after training.

Twenty-seven learners participated in the training. Learner confidence in CVC placement increased significantly after participation (median confidence level: 1.5 vs. 4.0, p < .001). Learner CVC knowledge also increased significantly after participation (median test score: 68% vs. 88%, p < .001). CVC placement procedure time, a marker for skill in CVC placement, decreased significantly after participation (median procedure time: 264 seconds vs. 146 seconds, p < .001).

Our simulation-based training program effectively increased knowledge, skill, and confidence in CVC placement for a variety of learners. Future work should evaluate the optimal frequency and structure of maintenance training and the impact of training on clinical outcomes.