Objectives

To demonstrate the advantages of using simulator mannequins in practical medical education and particularly in pediatrics, studying the different kinds of existing mannequins/models, their specific characteristics and uses.

Methods

Medical training based on the theoretical transmission of knowledge and clinical learning practiced on real patients is currently unviable because it is dependent on the timing and availability of patients at any given moment. Nowadays, medicine uses medical simulation models, thus facilitating the development of proficiency in skills required for the execution of particular procedures. Medical simulation provides several advantages: it does not require real and available patients, techniques may be repeated in order to address errors, students’ confidence in their abilities is promoted, and there is an absence of risk for the patient. Since 2009, the child health internship undertaken as part of the pediatric education section of the Integrated Master’s degree at the University of Coimbra Faculty of Medicine by sixth-year students has included practical classes with models where students practice techniques such as pediatric intubation, the Ortolani maneuver, venipuncture in upper limbs, lumbar puncture, endotracheal intubation, breath sounds auscultation, venipuncture, evaluation of normotensive fontanelle, and hypertension fontanelle. This practical component stimulates and appeals to students, who repeatedly select these classes as one of their favorites on the child health internship completed as part of the Integrated Master’s degree in Medicine.

Results

Students used medical simulation models to acquire knowledge and practice medical, invasive and non-invasive techniques such as: pediatric intubation, the Ortolani maneuver, venipuncture in the upper limbs, lumbar puncture, endotracheal intubation, breath sounds auscultation, venipuncture, evaluation of normotensive fontanelle, and hypertension fontanelle. Upon the students’ assessment by means of a preference questionnaire, it became clear that these classes were some of those preferred by sixth-year students completing the child health internship as part of their Integrated Master’s degree.

Conclusions

Students completing child health internships as part of the Integrated Master’s degree in medicine were able to develop skills in performing medical procedures, with very positive assessments given by these students on the experience.

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