Hands-On Lightly Embalmed Cadaver Lab for Teaching Knee Aspiration/Injection

• Published in: MedEdPORTAL Vol. 8
• Main Authors: Keim Janssen, Sarah, VanderMeulen, Stephane P., Brown, Darwin
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Association of American Medical Colleges 02-07-2012
• Subjects: Cadaver; Gross Anatomy; Knee Arthrocentesis; Knee Aspiration; Knee Injection; Patient Simulation
• ISSN: 2374-8265; 2374-8265
• DOI: 10.15766/mep_2374-8265.9187

Abstract Introduction This resource is a clinical skill module for student training and assessment of knee aspirations/injections using lightly embalmed cadavers as a sort of simulated patient. Knee aspirations/injections are commonly performed clinical skills. However, due to time constraints, variability of clinical rotations, and types of patients seen, students may or may not be exposed to all the clinical skills, including knee aspirations/injections, in which adequate training is needed. Methods This module includes a lab guide describing lightly embalmed cadavers, instructions for preparing a lightly embalmed cadaver knee joint for aspiration/injection, and a lab training session for students. A checklist and posttest for assessment of competency and knowledge complete the lab guide. The module also features also two PowerPoint presentations, one of which uses videos and notes on how to prepare a lightly embalmed cadaver for knee aspiration/injection and the other of which is a tutorial addressing indications, contraindications, complications, anatomy, equipment, and procedure for performing knee aspirations/injections. Results This lab has been taught to University of Nebraska Medical Center senior physician assistant (PA) students since 2009; it has also been offered as part of a continuing medical education course at the Nebraska Association of Physician Assistant 36th Annual Spring Meeting. Both PA students and licensed PAs reported positive feedback from the experience. Preliminary data collected from the PA students indicated improved technique and better retention for performing knee aspirations/injections. Discussion Lightly embalmed cadavers can serve as an optimal model with which to practice clinical skills for a variety of reasons: Their tissues are similar to living tissue in color, texture, and elasticity; real anatomical landmarks are encountered and used to perform the clinical skill; and the use of the cadaver reduces anxiety about safety issues. This module was developed to reduce the variability of and potential inadequate training in knee aspirations/injections.