TissueDB/Simulators/Peripheral Intravenous Catheterization Trainer

The Peripheral Intravenous Catheterization Trainer, commonly known as the Caboodle Noodle 2.0, is a low-cost task trainer for practicing peripheral intravenous cannulation (PIVC). The trainer uses a pool noodle section as an arm armature, IV extension tubing as a simulated vein, multipurpose sealing wrap as a subcutaneous tissue layer, and tattoo practice skin as the puncture surface. A gravity-fed IVPB bag provides fluid for flashback confirmation when the catheter enters the tubing lumen. Each unit supports approximately 20–30 practice attempts before the skin layer requires replacement, and each learner can have a dedicated trainer.

Also known as: Caboodle Noodle 2.0, Caboodle Noodle IV, Pool Noodle IV Trainer, NLN SIRC HomeGrown Solution (IV Insertion), DIY PIVC Trainer, Pool Noodle Venipuncture Trainer.

Not to be confused with: The original Caboodle Noodle (NLN HomeGrown Solutions), which is a separate removal-skills trainer for sutures, staples, saline locks, and Stat locks — it does not include IV insertion capability.

Step 1: Cut the pool noodle to approximately 20 cm (8 in) length.

Step 2: Inspect the cut surface for straightness and uniformity. Proceed if the noodle is within ±1 cm of target length. If irregular, re-cut.

Step 1: Prime the IV extension tubing with normal saline (or sterile water with optional 2–3 drops red food coloring). Clamp the distal end after priming.

Step 2: Lay the primed tubing along the longitudinal surface of the pool noodle in a straight path.

Step 3: Wrap the tubing and noodle with 2–3 layers of multipurpose sealing wrap. This secures the tubing in position and creates a palpable tissue layer.

Step 4: Position a sheet of tattoo practice skin over the wrapped noodle surface, centered over the tubing.

Step 5: Staple the tattoo skin edges to the underside of the noodle at 2–3 cm intervals.

Step 6: Verify assembly by palpating the trainer surface. The IV tubing should be detectable as a linear, slightly firm structure running through the tissue layers. If tubing is not palpable, reduce sealing wrap layers by one. If tubing surface feels exposed, add one additional wrap layer.

Step 1: Connect the primed IV extension tubing to a 100–250 mL IVPB bag.

Step 2: Hang the IVPB bag on an IV pole or hook approximately 60 cm above the trainer work surface.

Step 3: Unclamp the distal tubing end and verify fluid flows freely through the system. Drip rate should be approximately 1 drop per 2–3 seconds. If flow is absent, check for kinks, reprime the bag, or verify the adapter connection.

Build walkthrough.

CannulaSim build — full walkthrough

End-to-end build of the Caboodle Noodle 2.0 trainer, mirroring the four build phases on this page.

Authors: Tomas Amadeo

Date: 2026

License: Used with permission from Intuitive Foundation, 2026.

Completed-build demonstration.

CannulaSim build demo — assembled trainer

Walkthrough of the finished trainer showing catheter insertion, flashback confirmation, and catheter advancement on the completed build.

Authors: Tomas Amadeo

Date: 2026

License: Used with permission from Intuitive Foundation, 2026.

Procedure demonstration.

Sim Demo — IV cannulation practice

A learner uses the Caboodle Noodle 2.0 trainer to practice peripheral IV catheterization with flashback confirmation.

Authors: Tomas Amadeo

Date: 2026

License: Used with permission from Intuitive Foundation, 2026.

Step 1: Insert a 20–22 gauge IV catheter through the tattoo skin and sealing wrap into the tubing at a 15–30 degree angle.

Step 2: Observe the catheter hub for fluid flashback. Color change (if food coloring was added) or rapid filling of clear saline confirms successful entry.

Step 3: Advance the catheter off the needle into the tubing using the over-the-needle technique.

Step 4: Flush the catheter with 1–2 mL saline to confirm patency and seal integrity. Free flushing indicates successful cannulation. If any test fails: verify IVPB bag height, check for tubing kinks or air locks, and confirm tattoo skin puncture has not sealed around tubing.

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