544 Study of the Impact of Virtual Simulation on Umbilical Vein Catheterization Among Emergency Medicine Residents

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

9-1-2025

Publication Title

Ann Emerg Med

Abstract

Study Objectives: To assess whether Virtual reality (VR) technology has potential as a simulation tool for such procedures due to its ease of access, repeatability, and low relative cost; To survey EM residents on their perceptions around VR training in UVC placement; To analyze the performance of EM residents on the completion of simulated UVC placement on a mannikin; To teach EM residents to be proficient in high-acuity low opportunity (HALO) procedures including umbilical vein catheterization (UVC). Methods: The study consisted of a non-randomized mixed convenience sample of EM residents (PGY 1-PGY 3) from an academic institution participating in didactic education on UVC placement. All residents were provided standard pre-learning education (n=27). The VR group received additional pre-learning with a VR UVC module (Vantari VR, Sydney AU) (n=9). The didactic session concluded with observed placement of a UVC on a task-trainer. Research assistants recorded time to completion for all learners. Standardized surveys were completed after VR pre-learning and UVC didactic simulation. Statistics using t-test or nonparametric testing were utilized where applicable. Results: All residents were successful in placement of UVC catheter on a mannikin. The mean completion time of the UVC hands-on simulation was 287 seconds in the VR group and 319 seconds in the control group (difference 32, 95% confidence interval -51 to 116 seconds, p=0.432). Participants in the VR group rated their confidence in UVC placement at 4.13 (1-5 scale) average as compared to 3.55 in the control group (p=0.150). Surveys revealed that participants strongly agreed that VR is a valuable training modality, but level of agreement was mixed on whether VR was more valuable than hands-on simulation. Conclusions: Qualitative data from the study shows that VR simulation increases confidence among residents in perception of procedural readiness and was shown to decrease their procedural time. The results of this small study did not reach statistical significance and further prospective research is needed to determine larger scale impact of VR on procedural training and patient-oriented outcomes. No, authors do not have interests to disclose

Volume

86

Issue

3

First Page

S234

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