Development, Evaluation, and Implementation of a Cost-Effective, Novel Lateral Canthotomy Simulation Model for Training Emergency Medicine Physicians

This study proposes a new, low-cost lateral canthotomy simulation model for the purpose of improving training among emergency medicine physicians. This model is important for the rehearsal and honing of skills necessary in such a critical procedure, in cases where this procedure needs to be done in a sensitive situation where an ophthalmologist is not readily available. We surveyed 15 emergency residents before and after the training on comfort and proficiency in performing lateral canthotomy with a standardized Likert scale. Results show a significant increase in comfort and familiarity with the procedure post training, with average comfort levels increasing from 2.4 at pre-training to approximately 3.87 at post training. These findings would, therefore, indicate that the novel simulation model effectively bridges the proficiency gap and should then translate into better preparedness with the potential to improve patient outcomes in emergency settings.