Low-Fidelity Simulation Versus Live Human Arms for Intravenous Cannulation Training: A Qualitative Assessment

In the military, as well as in civilian medical settings, the question of whether to use simulation versus live tissue remains in debate. The purpose of this paper is to examine qualitative data provided by students (n = 260) attending the Army’s Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program who completed peripheral intravenous cannulation (PIVC) training using either a Simulated Human Arm (SHA) (n = 135) or a Live Human Arm (LHA) (n = 124). Students provided subjective responses in a written format pertaining to their PIVC training method. Data patterns were assessed using Spradley’s semantic relationship approach. Results reveal that both those using a SHA and a LHA reported feeling confident following training, however the reasons for their confidence differed. Those using a SHA felt confident due to the opportunity to repeatedly practice on a simulated arm, while those learning on a LHA felt assured knowing they had performed PIVC successfully on a live human during LPN training.