Hands-on Practice Sessions Research Articles

Advanced Technologies for Teaching Rachana Sharir: Implications for Academic Education

The study of Rachana Sharira is a cornerstone of educational programs in the biological and healthcare fields. It is crucial that the teaching methods and instructional strategies used in this subject effectively prepare students. Traditionally, Rachana Sharira has been taught through a combination of lectures and hands-on practical sessions involving cadaver dissections and pre-dissected specimens. However, with the advent of modern digital technologies, such as smartphones, QR codes, and virtual reality, along with advanced imaging techniques like radiography, ultrasonography, MRI, and CT scans, the landscape of Rachana Sharira education is evolving. This review aims to explore how these innovative tools are being integrated into academic settings to enhance the diversity and effectiveness of Rachana Sharira teaching, ultimately improving students' understanding of the subject and its clinical applications.

The Development and Implementation of a Parallel, Multi-Campus Medical Anatomy Curriculum Delivered with and without Cadavers

AbstractA parallel, multi-campus anatomy curriculum was developed that could be delivered with or without body donor cadaveric teaching resources. This blended program includes asynchronous lectures, e-Learning modules, formative self-assessment, independent study, and synchronous hands-on practical sessions. Practical sessions at the metropolitan campus utilise professionally prepared body donor cadaveric teaching resources, whereas rural campus practical sessions use a combination of non-cadaveric resources such as 3D models (physical and digital) and interactive multimedia to achieve identical learning outcomes. Here, we discuss the specific features of the practical sessions delivered in this novel cross-campus curriculum, with a focus on the non-cadaveric teaching resources deployed.

Workshop of Human Resource Capacity Development Through Canva Training to Increase Msmes Digital Promotion in Bengkalis

This seminar is an activity carried out to assist students and the wider community in developing theability of human resources to build creative businesses by utilising the Canva application. Increased digitalpromotion is key for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to increase their visibility andcompetitiveness. This workshop aims to develop the capacity of human resources in Bengkalis Regency throughtraining using the Canva platform. Canva is an easy-to-use online graphic design tool, and this workshop isdesigned to provide an in-depth understanding of using Canva in the context of digital promotion. Participantswill be guided to understand the basic concepts of graphic design, digital promotion strategies, and theapplication of skills using Canva. During the training, participants will engage in hands-on practical sessions tocreate attractive and effective digital promotional materials for their MSMEs. Keywords: Workshop, Digital Promotion, Canva Training, MSMEs in Bengkalis.

Pengembangan Keahlian dalam Produksi Kopi Liwa Melalui Pelatihan Penggunaan Mesin

Training on using coffee machines was held to improve the skills of Gamba Kupi Liwa Community members in the coffee production process. Through a theoretical and practical approach, participants are introduced to the concept of using modern machines to increase the efficiency and quality of coffee products. Training involves theory sessions, practical demonstrations, as well as interactive discussions. The training methodology includes exposure to the basic concepts of using coffee machines, hands-on practical sessions using modern equipment, and case studies to demonstrate the application of concepts in the coffee industry. The evaluation was carried out to measure participant understanding and the impact of the training on Gamba Kupi Liwa Community coffee production. The results of the training showed significant improvements in machine usage skills, operational efficiency and product quality. Additionally, training creates a collaborative environment among community members, increasing their involvement in the development of the local coffee industry. Thus, this training not only develops technical skills, but also builds the foundation for sustainable growth in the coffee industry. The success of this training provides a positive view of the potential of the Gamba Kupi Liwa Community to become a major player in the coffee industry, creating a positive impact on the community's economy and society.

Evaluation of a hybrid medication synchronization training module for pharmacy technicians

BackgroundMedication synchronization involves coordinating a patient’s medications to a single date each month. Medication synchronization programs close gaps in care and improve adherence compared with automatic refill-processing programs. Patients are 2-6 times more adherent to medications when enrolled in a medication synchronization program. Medication synchronization has historically been driven by pharmacists; however, pharmacy technicians are in a unique position to logistically run this service. ObjectiveThis study aimed to develop a training program for pharmacy technicians regarding medication synchronization and assess changes in knowledge and confidence before and after implementing a training program. Practice descriptionAn independent community pharmacy in North Carolina. Pharmacists provide medication therapy management, reimbursed clinical services, medication synchronization, and immunizations. Practice innovationThe training program included medication synchronization basics, patient enrollment process, processing a synced patient, and a hands-on practice session. Evaluation methodsTechnicians took a pre-training survey assessing knowledge and confidence before immediately completing a one-on-one pharmacist-led training session with a hands-on component regarding medication synchronization. Technicians took the same post-training survey 2 weeks after completing the training session and using medication synchronization in daily workflow. Pre- and post-training scores were assessed using a paired samples t test. ResultsTen technicians completed the training program; 40% of the technicians were certified and 30% were enrolled in a PharmD program. The mean pre-training knowledge score was 78% (7.1 of 9 points), the mean post-training knowledge score was 92% (8.3 of 9 points), and the mean difference between the pre- and post-training knowledge scores was 13.4% (1.2 points), with a statistically significant difference (P = 0.0026). Confidence with conducting a medication synchronization call increased from 7.2 to 9.6 on a 10-point Likert scale, and confidence scores increased regarding incorporating medication synchronization into workflow from 6.9 to 8.7. ConclusionThe standardized technician training program increased knowledge and confidence in technicians regarding managing a medication synchronization program.

Whole-Mount Histochemical Protocols in Zebrafish for a Hands-On Developmental Biology Practical Course in Ecuador.

Research-based education at the undergraduate level is ideal for fostering the training of future scientists. In an undergraduate Developmental Biology course, this learning strategy requires the availability of model species and enough research reagents, not only for technique training but also for the development of student original projects. This might be challenging in most countries, where resources are limited. Hence, there is a need to develop low-cost solutions for use in the classroom. In this study, we describe the optimization and use of two low-cost protocols in zebrafish embryos for hands-on practical sessions and project-based learning in a Developmental Biology undergraduate course in Ecuador. These protocols were designed for the practical and experimental learning of vertebrate meroblastic cleavage, gastrulation, and neural crest differentiation. The proposed protocols have been previously described in the literature and use silver nitrate and alcian blue, two relatively inexpensive reagents, to label cell membranes and cartilage. The silver nitrate protocol allows the study of cell contact formation during cleavage and the identification of cellular changes during gastrulation, including yolk internalization and epiboly. The alcian blue staining allows the analysis of cranial mesenchymal differentiation into cartilage. These protocols are ideal for practical sessions due to their ease of application, quick results, adaptability to the class schedule, and robustness in the hands of beginning researchers. Finally, these protocols are adaptable for research-based class projects.

Comparing the effects of blended learning and traditional instruction on basic life support for laypersons: A randomized controlled trial

Background/purposeBlended learning offers the advantages of both instructor-led and self-instruction methods in basic life support (BLS). Our study aims to compare the effects of blended learning with those of traditional instructor-led methods on the performance of laypersons taking BLS courses. MethodsA total of 108 participants were randomly assigned to three groups: traditional instruction (group A, n = 36), blended learning with two rounds of practice (group B, n = 36), and blended learning with three rounds of practice (group C, n = 36). Group A received a 90-min lecture and a 30-min hands-on practice session using a manikin and a metronome. Participants in groups B and C received 18-min standardized online video lessons and performed hands-on practice twice and thrice, respectively. The primary outcome was chest compression at a correct speed (100–120 compressions per min) after the training course. Secondary outcomes included knowledge test scores, attitudes and confidence, and individual skill performance after training. ResultsPatient characteristics were similar between the groups. Blended learning with practicing thrice resulted in the highest compressions at a correct speed (group A vs. B vs. C, 68.09 vs 80.03 vs 89.42, p = 0.015) and the shortest average hands-off time (group A vs. B vs. C, 1.12 vs 0.86 vs 0.17 s, p = 0.015). Both blended groups performed better in confirming environmental safety (p < 0.001). No differences in scores of the knowledge test, attitude, or confidence were noted among the three groups. ConclusionBlended learning with three rounds of hands-on practice may be considered an alternative teaching method.

PELATIHAN ECOPRINT SEBAGAI BENTUK PEMANFAATAN BAHAN ALAMI KEPADA IBU-IBU PKK DESA MABUAN

Ecoprint Training is a non-formal educational program that aims to introduce natural printing techniques using organic materials from the environment. The training is designed to enable participants to develop their artistic skills while appreciating the biodiversity and abundance of natural resources that surround us. Training materials include an in-depth understanding of the types of plants, leaves, and other natural materials that can be used in the ecoprint process. Participants will learn about material preparation techniques, such as natural pigment extraction and fabric preparation. In addition, they will be given practical guidance in applying designs and creating unique motifs through natural printing techniques. During the training, there will be hands-on practice sessions where participants will practice the techniques they learned under the guidance of expert instructors. Participants will also be given the opportunity to experiment with combinations of natural materials and printing methods to create unique and personalized results. The purpose of this training is to enable participants to produce original and aesthetically pleasing ecoprint artworks. In addition, the program also aims to raise awareness of the importance of nature conservation and promote the use of natural materials as an environmentally friendly alternative. Through Ecoprint Training, it is expected that participants will acquire adequate knowledge and skills to continue the practice of natural printing independently. In addition, it is also expected that participants will bring home the spirit to maintain and preserve natural beauty and apply ecoprint principles in their daily lives.&#x0D;

An Educational Program for Remote Training and Supervision of Home-Based Transcranial Electrical Stimulation: Feasibility and Preliminary Effectiveness

ObjectivesThere has been recent interest in the administration of transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) by a caregiver, family member, or patient themselves while in their own homes (HB-tES). The need to properly train individuals in the administration of HB-tES is essential, and the lack of a uniform training approach across studies has come to light. The primary aim of this paper is to present the HB-tES training and supervision program, a tele-supervised, instructional, and evaluation program to teach laypersons how to administer HB-tES to a participant and to provide a standardized framework for remote monitoring of participants by teaching staff. The secondary aim is to present early pilot data on the feasibility and effectiveness of the training portion of the program based on its implementation in 379 sessions between two pilot clinical trials. Materials and MethodsThe program includes instructional materials, standardized tele-supervised hands-on practice sessions, and a system for remote supervision of participants by teaching staff. Nine laypersons completed the training program. Data on the feasibility and effectiveness of the program were collected. ResultsNo adverse events were reported during the training or any of the HB-tES sessions after the training. All laypersons successfully completed the training. The nine laypersons reported being satisfied with the training program and confident in their tES administration capabilities. This was consistent with laypersons requiring technical assistance from teaching staff very infrequently during the 379 completed sessions. The average adherence rate between all administrators was >98%, with seven of nine administrators having 100% adherence to the scheduled sessions. ConclusionsThese findings indicate that the HB-tES program is effective and is associated with participant satisfaction. SignificanceWe hope that the remote nature of this training program will facilitate increased accessibility to HB-tES research for participants of different demographics and locations. This program, designed for easy adaptation to different HB-tES research applications and devices, also is accessible online. The adoption of this program is expected to facilitate uniformity of study methods among future HB-tES studies and thereby accelerate the pace of tES intervention discovery.

Pelatihan Penyusunan Surat Melalui Mail Merge Bagi Perangkat Gampong Kecamatan Peureulak

This training aims to provide knowledge and skills to gampong officials in Peureulak District in using the mail merge technique to compose letters efficiently and effectively. Participants will learn the steps in creating a template document that includes design patterns, formats, and variable settings that will be used to combine data. Next, participants will learn how to integrate data from external sources such as Excel into Word documents using the mail merge feature. They will learn how to set data filtering criteria, edit and modify documents, and add dynamic elements such as tables, images, and graphs. Training will also cover common troubleshooting techniques related to mail merge, such as resolving data merge errors, fixing incorrect formatting, and optimizing processes to increase productivity. Participants will be involved in hands-on practical sessions where they will be given the opportunity to try out the techniques, they have learned for themselves. This will help them hone their skills and gain confidence in using mail merge in their daily work. This training can provide significant benefits for gampong officials in Peureulak District, enabling them to improve efficiency and accuracy in compiling letters. By using mail merge, the process of writing letters can be automated, saving time and reducing the risk of human error.

Impact of a multimodal anatomy CPD course on intravenous cannulation skills – An Irish radiographers and radiation therapists’ perspective

Radiographers and radiation therapists continually upgrade their knowledge to remain informed and competent in modern radiological imaging techniques. Despite the generally agreed upon significance of anatomy for successful interpretation of imaging modalities, its link with clinical performance of radiographers and radiation therapists has not been highlighted before. The above-stated gap in the literature was addressed by employing an anatomy-based CPD course and investigating its influence on intravenous cannulation and administration skills of 10 radiographers and 4 radiation therapists. The course comprised interactive anatomy tutorials (employing vascular histology e-modules and vascular prosections), lectures and simulation sessions to practice IV cannulation. Likert questionnaires were employed to gauge attitudes and interests, prior to and after the course. At the end of the course, participants perceived anatomy prosections/dissection more useful compared to other learning modalities, including social media, textbooks, e-learning, plastic models and lectures. This corresponded with a significant increase in their perceived level of anatomy knowledge and confidence in identifying structures on prosections, and tracing vessels on radiographs and body surface. Anatomy-based CPD course was valued with regards to their career progression and enhancement of anatomical knowledge. Furthermore, the use of prosections and hands-on practical sessions was highly commended and a desire to attend similar future courses was expressed. Lastly, participants identified factors facilitating or hindering course attendance and offered advice to improve efficacy of future courses. We conclude that an interactive anatomy-based CPD—employing multimodal pedagogies—can be effective in enhancing anatomy knowledge and clinical competence of radiographers and radiation therapists.

Comprehensive residency-based point-of-care ultrasound training program increases ultrasound utilization in the emergency department.

Point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) is a prompt and simple tool for the urgent diagnosis and treatment of patients in the emergency department (ED). We developed a comprehensive residency-based POCUS training program for ED residents and determined its effect on ultrasound utilization in the ED.We conducted a retrospective cohort study in the ED of a university-affiliated medical center, to evaluate a centralized residency-based POCUS training course for ED residents, which included 12 core ultrasound applications, from July 2017 to June 2018. Each application comprised a combined lecture and hands-on practice session that lasted for 2 hours. Pre-tests and post-tests, including still image and video interpretation, were performed. The use of POCUS (number of ultrasound studies performed divided by the number of patients each resident saw in 1 year) among ED residents, before and after the POCUS training course (July 2016–June 2017 and July 2018–June 2019), was calculated and analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.Sixteen residents participated and completed the entire training course. The post-test score was significantly better than the pre-test score, by a median of 12 points (P = .04). Utilization of POCUS among the ED residents increased significantly, from 0.15 ultrasound studies per patient per year to 0.41 ultrasound studies per patient per year (P < .01), after completion of the entire training course. Increased POCUS scanning percentages over the cardiac tissue, soft tissue, abdominal region, vascular system, procedural guidance, and ocular regions were also noted after providing the curriculum.Conducting a comprehensive POCUS education program may enhance POCUS utilization among residents in the ED.

Distance learning is here to stay: Shall we reorganize ourselves for the post-covid-19 world?

Distance learning achieved academic recognition in 1892 when the first college level program was introduced. Later, due to rapid technological advancements in the late nineteenth century, the most prestigious institutions across the world introduced distance learning. The Covid-19 pandemic has expedited distance learning in the education landscape following a sudden closure of academic institutions and almost overnight, online delivery of courses was initiated at all levels of education. In the current scenario, distance learning is very likely to stay beyond the covid era, and authors envision a “hybrid” model of education with blended learning i.e. a combination of face-to-face and online teaching. The necessity to follow social distancing will force us to limit the class room activities as well as hands-on practical training sessions to a reduced number of students. It will require the void to be filled through distance learning education.&#x0D; Key words: Distance learning, Covid -19 pandemic, online courses, hybrid model, blended learning&#x0D; Citation: Afshan G, Ahmed A. Distance learning is here to stay: Shall we reorganize ourselves for the post-covid-19 world? Anaesth. pin intensive care 2020;24(5):&#x0D; Received: 27 September 2020, Reviewed: 30 September 2020, Accepted: 2 October 2020

THE APPROPRIATE TECHNIQUE TO USE INHALER DEVICES THROUGH IN-PERSON TEACHING SESSIONS

SESSION TITLE: Tuesday Abstract Posters SESSION TYPE: Original Investigation Posters PRESENTED ON: 10/22/2019 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM PURPOSE: Patients with the diagnosis of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are usually prescribed inhaled medications, delivered through various devices, some of which are challenging to use by the patients. Studies suggest that 70-90% of Asthma/COPD treatment failure are due to inappropriate inhaler use. Hence, clinicians should always address the appropriate inhaler use techniques with their patients through in-person teaching sessions. The aim of this quality-improvement project is to increase the participation of the residents’ demonstration of the appropriate inhaler use techniques by 15% over three months in the outpatient setting. METHODS: We conducted an initial review of clinical notes for patients with Asthma/COPD to identify the baseline rate of in-person inhaler technique teachings by the residents. Thereafter, we initiated the project by holding a didactic session with a respiratory therapist sharing the appropriate inhalers techniques with the residents followed by a hands-on practice session facilitated by faculty members. Sample inhalers were available to use in the clinic. A homegrown step-by-step checklist was accessible to patients to help them understand the techniques in more details and to help with continuity of care. We reviewed a random sample of clinical notes after three months of the initial date of the project to assess for progression. This project was conducted as a quality improvement project according to the Plan, Do, Study, Act (PDSA) framework. RESULTS: The baseline sample of 20 clinical notes showed that in-person teaching sessions were mentioned in none of the assessment/plan sections, hence, the baseline was nil. Three months after initiating the project, we randomly selected a sample of 23 clinical notes from the outpatient clinic population of patients diagnosed with COPD/Asthma between May and July 2018. Patients’ age ranged from 28 to 72 years, mean of 49 years, 15/23 (65.2%) were female, and 9/23 (39.1%) were smokers. The sample demonstrated that 9/23 (39.1%) of the patients with COPD/Asthma had an in-person teaching session about the appropriate inhaler techniques. CONCLUSIONS: The current quality-improvement project at our institution has surpassed its initial goal, increasing the rate of in-person inhaler techniques teaching sessions by 39%. The use of didactic session to share the appropriate use of inhalers among residents and providing them with tools, such as checklist and inhaler samples, to enhance collaborative and shared discussion-making are highly beneficial in increasing the rate of in-person teaching sessions with patients. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Considering that 70-90% of Asthma/COPD treatment failure are due to inappropriate inhaler use it is essential to evaluate patients’ inhaler techniques at every opportunity. As a follow-up we would like to check if this may lead to a decrease hospital admission from asthma/COPD exacerbation. DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by Ghulam Aftab, source=Web Response No relevant relationships by Hiba Rehman, source=Web Response

Musculoskeletal ultrasound workshops in postgraduate physician training: a pre- and post-workshop survey of 156 participants

BackgroundUse of ultrasonography has revolutionized diagnosis of musculoskeletal disorders. Until now, few studies have investigated usefulness of a short-period workshop for musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSKUS) education. In this research, we attempted to explore (1) whether the physicians felt it useful to attend this type of courses for improving knowledge of sonoanatomy and scanning skills, (2) if the attendees’ perceived confidence in musculoskeletal diagnoses by using ultrasound increased following the program and (3) whether differences existed in perceived usefulness and confidence regrading different sessions of the course.MethodsThe target participants of the courses were postgraduate physicians without limitation of their specialties. The attendees’ responses to questionnaires before and after the course were reviewed. The workshop contained didactic and practical sessions on 6 major joints in accordance with the scanning protocols of EURO-MUSCULUS/USPRM. The course usefulness and perceived confidence in MSKUS examination were evaluated using a 5-point Likert scale. Data relevant to participants’ pre-workshop confidence levels were also analyzed. If any participant attended the course for more than 1 time, only their first survey was used for analysis.ResultsThe study included 156 participants. The average rating for the course usefulness ranged between 4 (useful) to 5 (very useful). There was no difference in perceived usefulness between the didactic and hands-on practical sessions. Participants’ perceived confidence significantly increased after the workshop but appeared to be lowest for evaluation on the hip joint. Previous experience in performing MSKUS (in years) was consistently associated with the level of pre-workshop confidence.ConclusionA short period ultrasound workshop might be useful regarding making musculoskeletal diagnoses by using ultrasound based on an increase in post-workshop confidence in MSKUS examinations. The perceived confidence of hip scanning was lower than that of other joints after the course, indicating inadequacy of education in hip sonoanatomy and intensity of hand-on practice in the present program. An increase in the faculty-to-student ratio or length of practice in the hip section should be implemented in the future course.

Neonatal Transport Clinician Performed Ultrasound Evaluation of Cardiac Function

BackgroundLimited point-of-care ultrasound skills for ultrasound-naïve neonatal transport clinicians could enhance clinical evaluation and decision making. Teaching Respiratory Therapists and Nurses to assess cardiac filling and contractility may be feasible. MethodsProspective educational study using educational materials, didactic theoretical, and hands-on practical sessions, followed by assessment of practical and theoretical skills. ResultsA total of 18 participants completed the study meeting the predefined standard, proving feasibility. Nine (50%) participants had ≤ 10 years of NICU experience. The mean time required for complete training was 8.6 ± 2.1 hours. Time was spent on average on 269 ± 104 minutes for hands-on practice, 171 ± 96 minutes on didactic training, and 76 ± 16 minutes on testing sessions. The median number of hands-on sessions per participant was 5 [Interquartile range (IQR) 5, 7]. The median number of infants required to complete training was 9 infants (IQR 7, 11). RRTs required less time than RNs. Evaluations and feedback from participants on the training program was positive. ConclusionNeonatal RNs and RTs can be trained to perform focused cardiac ultrasound examinations with average time of 8.6 hours. This skill could enhance clinical care on neonatal transport with appropriate interventions to manage suspected hypotension or shock.

Biosafety and biosecurity capacity building: insights from implementation of the NUITM-KEMRI biosafety training model

The NUITM-KEMRI biosafety training program was developed for capacity building of new biosafety level three (BSL-3) laboratory users. The training program comprehensively covers biosafety and biosecurity theory and practice. Its training curriculum is based on the WHO biosafety guidelines, local biosafety standards, and ongoing biosafety level three research activities in the facility, also taking into consideration the emerging public health issues. The program’s training approach enhances the participant’s biosafety and biosecurity knowledge and builds their skills through the hands-on practice sessions and mentorship training. Subsequently, the trainees are able to integrate acquired knowledge and good practices into their routine laboratory procedures. This article describes implementation of the NUITM-KEMRI biosafety training program.

Introducing a molecular basis to physiology in undergraduate medical education.

Medical professionals in India need to understand the concepts of molecular genetics to stay up-to-date with clinical care as well as to strengthen basic research in the biomedical sciences. We introduced a modular course on 'Fundamentals in molecular and cellular biology' for first-year medical undergraduate students in the second semester of the first MBBS year in 2015, as part of 'Innovations in teaching physiology' at St John's Medical College. This was a voluntary, add-on course with didactic lectures, hands-on practical classes and a research paper presentation. Evaluation of students' performance in the course took into account their performance in the research paper presentation-based group activity and their attendance for the hands-on practical sessions. Feedback on the content, delivery, evaluation and future improvements of the course was sought from the students. About 65% of students regularly attended the 10-hour long course. Of the students evaluated for the course, 43% achieved the highest, and 11% achieved the lowest grade assigned. Nearly 72% of the students provided feedback on the course. This first outing of the modular course on 'Fundamentals in molecular and cellular biology' generated excitement among the students and achieved some learning for them. It also brought to light hidden challenges in conducting such a voluntary course for medical students in India. Our experience with the course will help in designing a better-integrated course for exposure of first-year medical students to advances in molecular biology and its applied aspects as they progress through the MBBS course.

Training in Basic Surgical Skills: Need of the Hour

One of the major components of medical education is training individuals in various skills related to health care. Training directly on patients has its challenges due to limited opportunities, concerns for patient safety and reluctance of patients. Clinical Skills Laboratory provides a stress-free environment for learning and honing skills under direct supervision. Surgery is predominantly a craft-based branch of medicine and undergraduate medical students have very little exposure to it. With an objective of improving basic surgical skills and improving the competency, a short-term training programme in the form of a workshop was planned, executed in a dedicated Clinical Skills Laboratory for interns posted in the surgical branches. The core areas of training were basic surgical skills required in day-to-day practice in the surgical specialties. Five broad categories of skills, gowning and gloving, instrument handling, knot tying, suturing techniques and universal precautions, were dealt with demonstration and hands-on practice sessions. A total of 14 skills lab training sessions over a period of 3 years from February 2014–March 2017 were conducted where a total of 264 interns participated. Analysis of the feedback showed 62.87% of the participants felt that the content was excellent, 63.63% opined that the presentations were excellent, 76.13% appreciated the demonstration and 60.6% were satisfied with the time allotted for practice sessions. This short-term training in basic surgical skills in a controlled environment helped in improving the interns’ skills and confidence. Implementation of basic surgical skills training provided a complementary experience that facilitates the shortening of the learning curve and enhances the ability of the new doctors to perform various procedures. This model of training in skills laboratories could be inculcated in the curriculum as practical training for effective delivery of health care.

Attitudes towards three ultrasound-guided vascular access techniques in a paediatric emergency department.

although nurses often place peripheral intravenous (IV) catheters, little is known about their perceptions regarding use of ultrasound guidance. the authors aimed to determine paediatric emergency department nurses' attitudes toward ultrasound-guided IV access techniques and assessed practice change after training. In a cross-sectional study of nurses, they had didactic and hands-on practice sessions, using three short-axis ultrasound-guided IV access techniques on gel models. Outcomes included likability and ease of learning and performing the techniques. A 3-month follow-up questionnaire assessed attitudes and behavioural changes. 18 nurses were enrolled and 17 analysed. Participants liked all three techniques and thought they were easy to learn and perform. Eighty-two percent of the nurses used at least one technique clinically. The two-person self-guided technique was most preferred (65%) and used 3 months later (65%). nurses reported generally positive attitudes toward all three ultrasound-guided IV access techniques, but preferred the two-person self-guided technique. Owing to the small sample size, these results cannot be generalised and further research is needed.