Pericardiocentesis Simulation Model: Low Cost, Easy to Assemble, Effective Task Trainer

Pericardial effusion is a potentially lethal condition. If it is discovered early, it can be treated by pericardiocentesis under controlled condition with imaging by experienced care providers. If it is diagnosed at a later stage with clinical compromise, then an emergent procedure might be necessary. Since it is encountered infrequently, many providers may have little or no experience in managing the condition and performing a life-saving pericardiocentesis. This is a technical report that describes the creation of a neonatal model for pericardiocentesis. This is a high-fidelity, low-cost model that is simple to create. Materials that are inexpensive and easy to obtain are utilized to make the model. Neonatal care providers, including residents, fellows, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and attendings, can practice with this model. In some medical centers, an echocardiogram or bedside ultrasound is available to guide needle insertion; however, practicing the procedure on a model provides valuable experience. This model is designed to teach the performance of unguided pericardiocentesis without the use of simultaneous imaging. Included with this technical report are a supply list, a checklist, and a suggested scenario that can be used in association with this model. In this article, we have discussed our own experience and described lessons learned about training neonatal care providers in pericardiocentesis.