Bovine and porcine dummy models for training of handling techniques

Scope of the method

The Method relates to
  • Animal health
The Method is situated in
  • Education and training
Type of method
  • Other

Description

Method keywords
  • veterinary medicine
  • skillslab training
  • dummy
  • Animal handling
  • dairy cow
  • pig
  • piglet
Scientific area keywords
  • Veterinary education
  • clinical training
Method description

In the skillslab, dummy models and simulators are used for teaching various clinical skills. The veterinarians in training need to learn how to handle cows and pigs in a correct and safe way. Although training on living animals is indispensable, a part of the training process can be performed on bovine and porcine dummy models in the skillslab.

Lab equipment

Commercial models (koeierij.nl; calf: Melissa and Doug, piglet: Ikea, pig statue (Hippra))

Method status
  • History of use
  • Internally validated

Pros, cons & Future potential

Advantages
  • The use of educational animal models in a skillslab offers a number of significant advantages:
  • -Reduced use of laboratory animals and reduced discomfort for patients, as procedures can be practised on dummy models and simulators before performing them on a live animal.
  • -Teaching of clinical skills in a quiet and safe environment, reducing anxiety and stress for the veterinary student.
  • - Complex practical skills can be split into a number of small steps when practising them in the skillslab.
Challenges
  • - High cost of models,
  • - Clinical training on live animals needed as well.
Modifications

Further optimalisation of home-made models and purchasing available commercial models. Virtual/augmented reality can be added.

Future & Other applications

Training for porcine and bovine lab animal examination.

References, associated documents and other information

Associated documents
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20200818_113915.jpg

Contact person

Annelies Decloedt

Organisations

Ghent University (UGent)
Veterinary skillslab
Belgium