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Abstract
BACKGROUND: Three-dimensional (3D)–printed models are cost-effective and can be customized by trainers. This study designed a 3D-printed airway suction simulator for use by respiratory therapy (RT) students. The objective was to demonstrate the cost-effectiveness and application of 3D-printed models in respiratory care training, aiming to enhance the educational experience for RT students.
METHODS: This study developed a 3D-printed airway suction simulator that was cost-effective. A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving RT students to compare effectiveness in a 3D-model group and a control group. Skill assessments and written examinations were used to evaluate the participants’ knowledge and skills.
RESULTS: A total of 38 second-year RT students were randomly assigned to either the 3D-model group (n = 19) or the control group (n = 19). One participant in the 3D-model group was lost to follow-up during the planned direct observation of procedural skills (DOPS) assessment and satisfaction questionnaire completion. The posttest written examination scores were significantly higher in the 3D-model group than in the control group (100% vs 80%, P = .02). The scores from the DOPS and satisfaction questionnaire were comparable in the 2 groups.
CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that 3D printing can be used to create a safe and cost-effective airway suction simulator for use by RT students, with potential to enhance training methods. Further research is necessary.
Footnotes
- Correspondence: Ke-Yun Chao RRT PhD, Department of Respiratory Therapy, Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital, Fu Jen Catholic University, No. 69, Guizi Road, Taishan District, New Taipei City 24352, Taiwan. E-mail: ck_qq{at}hotmail.com
The authors have disclosed no conflicts of interest.
The study was funded by Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital (grant number PL-202108001-T). The funder was not involved in study design; in the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data; in the writing of the report; and in the decision to submit the article for publication.
Supplementary material related to this paper is available at http://www.rcjournal.com.
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