Helpful Hint #1: Cricothyroidotomy
When preparing the system for the Cricothyroidotomy, be sure to place
water-based gel on the cartilage, membrane, and in the simulated trachea
(under the membrane). This will better replicate human anatomy when
performing the procedure.
For increased realism, place one drop of simulated blood on the
lubricated cricothyroid membrane. Then attach the neck tissue by lining
up the Velcro and securing it to the felt strip. This will provide a
minimal blood effect when the student
surgically dissects the tissue layers.
Helpful Hint #2: Always Change the Cricothyroid Membrane
It is important to always replace the cricothyroid membrane after it has
been surgically dissected. The membrane acts as a seal for the
ventilation system, so if it is not replaced, the airway response will
be considerably weakened. This can negatively impact the realism of the
student's experience when completing the Chest Tube Insertion procedure,
since the student will not receive a rush of air when the pleural cavity
is penetrated.
Helpful Hint #3: Make Sure the Pleura Patch is Smooth
During system set-up, it is important to make sure there are no wrinkles
in the simulated pleura patches. If the patches are not inserted
smoothly, a tight seal cannot be created for the thoracic cavity and the
student will not receive a rush of air when inserting the chest tube. A
wrinkled pleura patch can also create difficulty when attempting to
penetrate the pleura with a kelly clamp. Instead of penetrating it, the
patch may get pushed between the ribs.
To ensure that the pleura patches are inserted correctly, grab each end
of the pleura patch and stretch it to remove wrinkles and create a tight
seal.
Helpful Hint #4: Successfully performing the Pericardiocentesis
When performing the Pericardiocentesis, it is important to first confirm
that your pericardiocentesis kit includes a needle that is at least 3.5
inches long. A needle shorter than this will not be long enough to reach
the simulated pericardial fluid.
If you have confirmed that you are using the correct length of needle
and you are still not able to complete the procedure, please refer try
one of Simulab's troubleshooting tips, such as ensuring the needle is
not clogged.
Confused
About Replaceable Tissue Sets?
Simulab's replaceable tissue sets are designed for use by multiple
students. As shown in the graphic - the neck, abdominal, and ankle
tissues can be used for two student procedures each and the chest tissue
can be used for four procedures.
For your convenience, replaceable tissue sets are sold in terms of
students. So if you ordered tissues for a Surgical Skills Practicum of
16 students, you would receive eight each of the neck, abdominal, and
ankle tissues (two student uses per tissue); and four chest tissues
(four student uses per tissue). If your course does not require all four
tissues, we can customize the tissues you receive according to your
needs.
Still confused? Contact our Customer Care Team at 206-297-1260 or
service@simulab.com for more information!
