McLean Gunderson Model Laboratory

First-year veterinary students practice IV access using various training models in their clinical skills course. Photo by McLean Gunderson.

A first-year student successfully draws blood from her canine patient using the Operation game® circuit board. Image by Seth Moffitt.

Dr. Gunderson demonstrates negative feedback provided by the IV Access Model to first-year students in the clinical skills course. Photo by Seth Moffitt.

IV Access Training Model

This model is crafted from a 3D printed canine forelimb with a realistic paw. A “live” cephalic vein is placed anatomically beneath a silicone skin layer. Beneath that layer is a metal plate connected to an Operation® board game circuit. A needle and syringe are connected to the circuit prior to use. IV access results in positive feedback in the form of “blood” in the syringe when the plunger is retracted, whereas negative feedback (light and buzzer) result if IV access is not obtained during an attempt. Students are reminded to maintain their hold on the paw (proper restraint) and manage their sharp (needle safety). This design/circuit may be applied to any limb for venous access.

Link to instructional video of the featured IV Access Model

"Take chances. Make mistakes. That is how you grow. Pain nourishes your courage. You have to fail in order to practice being brave."

Mary Tyler Moore (comedian, actress, producer, author)