Peripheral venous simulator development for medical training

The necessity to develop skills in medical training, from simple procedures such as sutures, venipunctures, and peripheral venous cannulations to complex surgeries, has driven innovation in the fabrication of medical simulators throughout history. These simulators are crafted using materials that mimic the physical and mechanical characteristics of human body parts, providing realistic training experiences. However, the costs associated with developing these simulators pose a significant challenge, especially for low-income areas. This work explores practical options for creating cost-effective and useful simulators by fabricating pieces that represent the forearm, a common site for venipunctures and peripheral venous cannulations. The fabrication process involved combining three types of polymers: PDMS, food-grade silicone, and Artesil shore 20 silicone, along with a Foley catheter to simulate the arm veins. The compatibility of these materials was thoroughly evaluated to produce valid prototypes, ensuring that the stress ratios closely matched the properties of human tissue. Preliminary evaluations of the simulators yielded promising results. They received an acceptability rating of 57.1% for excellent, 28.6% for good, and 14.3% for fair based on user experience. Medical students who tested the simulators found them effective for explaining the behavior of fluids in the body during venoclysis simulations. This feedback highlights the simulators' utility in providing hands-on training and enhancing the understanding of fluid dynamics in medical procedures.