A novel simulator model and standardized assessment tools for fine needle aspiration cytology training

Abstract

ObjectivesFine needle aspiration (FNA) is an invaluable diagnostic procedure for evaluation of lesions; however, acquisition of diagnostic material is dependent on the skill of the practitioner. We report a novel patient simulator for teaching the FNA procedure and structured assessment tools for educators and learners.MethodsWe created a novel simulator model for FNA training, employed a standardized teaching module, and assessed procedure utility in medical students. Groups of students completed training using a commercial version of the model, and underwent structured evaluation using an Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) form, and the Debriefing Assessment for Simulation in Healthcare (DASH) tool.ResultsIn the initial phase, 178 students rated the training workshop between valuable and essential (4.2 on a 5‐point Likert scale). In the second phase, for students evaluated with the OSATS form, the mean overall score was 33 out of 50 (range 26‐43). The areas of weakness for the participants were: (a) compression after the FNA procedure, (b) completion of the informed consent, and (c) correct explanation of the procedure to the patient. For the group of students that completed the DASH questionnaire, the results were: 6.2 (assessment by students) and 6.7 (assessment by instructor) out of a maximum of 7.ConclusionA realistic simulation model, in combination with a standardized training program with formal assessment methods is a valuable tool to teach FNA. We here describe a process for teaching the FNA procedure to interested educators and learners.

Virtual Pathology Education in Medical Schools Worldwide during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Advantages, Challenges Faced, and Perspectives

“…On the other hand, on-campus sessions could focus on small group teaching, hands-on exercises, and teamwork, in addition to exposure to the “hidden curriculum” (role modeling and professionalism) [ 27 , 51 ]. Selected tools could also be used for on-campus exercises, for example, gross dissection or fine-needle aspiration biopsy simulation models [ 52 , 53 ]. Our opinion is that student assessment also needs to be conducted on-campus rather than online whenever possible.…”

“…The technologies employed and experience gained from teaching remotely during the COVID-19 period would need to continue being used and shared among educators worldwide, rather than being discarded and simply returning to the pre-pandemic era and the way things were. The application of state-of-the-art technological tools that promote engagement (e.g., simulations, gaming, and interactive polling) would need to be emphasized in modern medical schools, in addition to the implementation of social media to encourage both on-campus and remote interactions whenever possible [ 24 , 42 , 52 , 53 , 57 , 58 ]. A number of challenges related to online learning, such as the lack of reliable electronic devices or internet connection for some students, could be potentially overcome with the support of Universities themselves, for instance, by ensuring each student with accessibility issues is provided with a suitable computing device and/or by investing in their library services (e.g., physical space with adequate hardware infrastructure and a reliable internet connection and access to variable e-resources).…”

A novel combined animal tissue model for freehand and ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration biopsy and smear preparation techniques training

“…Set side by side with novel commercial silicone rubber models, the main advantages of our model are its realism (silicone does not realistically represent skin), an integrated approach, and the variety of possible positions, shapes and sizes of tumour. [6][7][8][9] The novel animal tissue needles immediately after the procedure. This disadvantage holds for any model using biological tissue.…”

“…A trend has recently been established in Spain, of using commercial silicone rubber models with a system of lotion-filled balloons, which are relatively expensive. 6,7 The aspirated material was a lotion, so experience of smear preparation with an assessment of cell morphology on the prepared slides was undoubtedly impaired. Similarly, silicone breast phantom models for training US-guided FNAB are also commercially available in Japan and in the United States.…”

Who Can Debriefing Assessment for Simulation in Healthcare? Different Perspectives on Teledebriefing Assessments

“…Usually, an expert gives an evaluation in debriefing; however, this is not always possible. Through its 3 versions, the elements contained in the DASH instrument provide different perspectives for debriefing assessment, [10][11][12][13] although it has not been used in teledebriefing (also known as virtual debriefing). Recognizing the differences between the views of debriefing assessments could improve the quality of debriefings by analyzing how the evaluators perceive debriefing performance.…”