Mixed reality simulation for peripheral intravenous catheter placement training

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Augmented Reality in Healthcare
• Vascular Access Training

Background:

• Traditional simulation lacks visualization of internal anatomy.
• Mixed reality (MR) offers projection of 3-D virtual anatomical images.
• This study evaluates an MR trainer for peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) placement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of a novel mixed reality trainer for PIVC insertion.
• To evaluate trainee performance and perceptions of the MR training tool.

Main Methods:

• Sixty-two participants performed PIVC placement on a mannequin using projected arm vein images.
• Performance was assessed via a checklist; participant perceptions were gathered through surveys.
• A two-week follow-up survey assessed clinical PIVC experiences post-training.

Main Results:

• First-attempt PIVC placement success rate was 77.4% (48/62).
• Complications like extravasation (17.7%) and hematoma (4.8%) were infrequent on the first attempt.
• 95.2% found visualizing internal structures useful; 93.5% agreed MR enhanced learning and should be integrated into training.

Conclusions:

• The MR trainer provides an effective environment for learning PIVC placement.
• High success rates and positive participant feedback indicate the tool's value.
• MR simulation tools show promise for bridging the gap between didactic learning and clinical practice.