A Simulation-Based Approach to Procedural Education in Resource-Limited Settings: Designing an Abdominal Trainer for...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Simulation
• Global Health

Background:

• Medical simulation advancements improve clinician skills and patient outcomes in high-income countries.
• Paracentesis and lumbar puncture are common procedures, but high-quality training is costly and inaccessible in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• Financial constraints and supply chain issues limit access to simulators in LMICs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and implement a customizable, cost-effective, and reusable simulator for paracentesis and lumbar puncture.
• To enhance procedural training accessibility for clinicians in remote areas and LMICs.
• To improve procedural confidence, speed, accuracy, and comfort among clinicians in under-resourced settings.

Main Methods:

• Development of a low-cost, reusable medical simulator.
• Focus on enabling practice of paracentesis and lumbar puncture.
• Customizable design for adaptability to different needs.

Main Results:

• The designed simulator provides a cost-effective solution for procedural training.
• It aims to improve access to essential skills development for clinicians in LMICs.
• Potential to enhance patient care through better-trained providers.

Conclusions:

• The developed simulator addresses the critical need for accessible procedural training in LMICs.
• It offers a sustainable solution to overcome financial and logistical barriers.
• Implementation can lead to improved clinical performance and patient outcomes globally.