Background: We have previously used three-dimensional printing to develop a novel manikin for simulation training of central venous catheter insertion in critical care. The objective of this study was to evaluate the fidelity of the model by testing with novice and experienced operators.

Methods: A convenience sample of intensivist physicians experienced in central venous catheter insertion and critical care nurses without prior central venous catheter training was assembled. Participants were offered a video educational clip and a one-on-one demonstration. All participants were then asked to insert a central venous catheter into the model. Outcomes included requests for assistance, success rate, time to insertion, and subjective feedback.

Results: Thirteen intensivists and 14 nurses participated. Nurses were more likely to view the demonstration video prior to the procedure (13/14; 92.9% vs. 7/13; 53.9%; p = 0.033). Intensivists were more likely male (11/13; 84.6% vs. 3/14; 21.4%; p = 0.002) and tended to be older, with a higher proportion in the 35- to 44-year and 45- to 54-year age ranges than the nurses (92.3% vs. 71.4%; p = 0.426). Nurses requested more assistance and received more guidance but had similar overall success (100.0% vs 92.3%; p = 0.481). The median time taken for the procedure was 19 min and 59 s for nurses and 8 min and 14 s for intensivists (p = 0.004). All participants agreed that the model effectively prepared trainees for their first human central venous catheter insertion. Nurses also reported a significant increase in procedural confidence post simulation. Additionally, most participants agreed or strongly agreed that the model realistically simulated the femoral vein, an essential aspect of the central venous catheter insertion.

Conclusions: Nurses required additional assistance and took longer to complete the insertion, demonstrating preliminary evidence for the model’s construct validity. Furthermore, the model was deemed a realistic training tool with successful insertion by nearly all participants.

Edwards F, McCurdie T, Carlisle D, Pang G, Coyer F, Laupland KB. The effectiveness of a three-dimensional printed model for training novice healthcare professionals in central venous catheter insertion: A cross-sectional study in a critical care setting. Aust Crit Care. 2025 Feb 6;38(3):101197. doi: 10.1016/j.aucc.2025.101197. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39919580.