A Low-Cost Task Trainer Constructed from Silicone Nipple Covers.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education Simulation
• Surgical Skills Training
• Emergency Medicine Procedures

Background:

• Superficial soft-tissue abscesses are common in emergency departments, with incision and drainage (I&D) being the preferred treatment.
• Traditional training for I&D often lacks affordable and accessible task trainers, hindering skill development.
• Existing low-cost simulation methods may require cadavers or extensive preparation time.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a novel, low-cost nipple cover task trainer for teaching abscess incision and drainage (I&D).
• To assess the impact of the task trainer on resident confidence and perceived realism of the simulation.
• To provide an accessible simulation tool for centers with limited resources.

Main Methods:

• A task trainer was fabricated using readily available materials: nipple covers, plastic wrap, and hand lotion.
• Eight PGY-1 emergency medicine residents participated in a simulation session involving abscess anesthesia, I&D using linear and loop techniques, and packing.
• Resident confidence and task trainer fidelity were assessed using pre- and post-simulation Likert scale surveys.

Main Results:

• Mean resident confidence in performing abscess drainage significantly increased from 3.5 to 4.875 (p=0.0038) post-simulation.
• The task trainer was rated highly for realism, with a mean fidelity score of 4.875.
• All participating residents recommended the task trainer for future educational use.

Conclusions:

• The nipple cover task trainer is an affordable, simple, and effective tool for teaching abscess incision and drainage.
• This simulation significantly enhances beginner confidence and provides a realistic training experience.
• The task trainer requires minimal preparation and resources, making it suitable for diverse simulation settings.