Medical Student Instruction in Peripheral Nerve Blockade Utilizing Fresh Cadaver Limbs in a Simulation Center

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Anatomy
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Ultrasound imaging integration in medical education requires enhancement.
• An elective course was designed for preclinical students focusing on anatomy and ultrasound-guided nerve blocks using cadavers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate medical students' ability to identify anatomical structures and perform nerve blocks after an ultrasound elective course.
• To assess the educational benefit of ultrasound and cadaveric components in medical training.

Main Methods:

• Students received didactic instruction followed by hands-on practice with ultrasound on phantoms, live models, and cadaver limbs.
• Outcomes included identification of anatomical structures, performance of simulated nerve blocks, and a post-course survey.

Main Results:

• Students achieved a 91% success rate in identifying anatomical structures.
• Students demonstrated capability in performing simulated nerve blocks with minimal prompting.
• Post-course surveys indicated strong student perception of the course's educational value.

Conclusions:

• Ultrasound instruction using live models and cadavers effectively enhanced anatomical recognition in medical students.
• The course provided valuable clinical correlation through simulated peripheral nerve blockade, supporting medical education goals.