Inconspicuous portable audio/visual recording: Transforming an IV pole into a mobile video capture stand

INTRODUCTION: Although a traditional simulation laboratory may have excellent installed audio/visual capabilities, often large classes overwhelm the limited space in the laboratory. With minimal monetary investment, it is possible to create a portable audio/visual stand from an old IV pole. METHODS: An IV pole was transformed into an audio/visual stand to overcome the burden of transporting individual electronic components during a patient safety research project conducted in an empty patient room with a standardized patient. The materials and methods for making the modified IV pole are outlined in this article. RESULTS: The limiting factor of production is access to an old IV pole; otherwise a few purchases from an electronics store complete the audio/visual IV pole. CONCLUSIONS: The modified IV pole is a cost-effective and portable solution to limited space or the need for audio/visual capabilities outside of a simulation laboratory. The familiarity of an IV pole in a clinical setting reduces the visual disturbance of relocated audio/visual equipment in a room previously void of such instrumentation.