A low-cost, realistic peripheral IV insertion simulator designed for repeated practice in low-resource training environments. This model replicates the tactile feedback of skin puncture, flashback visualization, and cannulation.
Component
Material
Description
Skin
Elastic membrane (e.g., latex sheet or silicone mat)
Simulates human skin; durable for multiple punctures or replaceable
Vein
IV tubing / silicone tubing (2–3 mm inner diameter)
Pressurizable to allow flashback; easily replaceable or self-sealing
Tissue Layer
Sponge, foam, or gelatin block
Provides “squishiness” and resistance around the vein
Blood
Corn syrup + red food coloring
Mimics venous flashback; refillable
IV Bag + Tubing
Clinical IV set (reuse allowed for training purposes)
For fluid delivery once cannulation is successful
Tape
Medical tape
Used for securing the IV line during practice
▼ Developer Instructions Use the following steps to construct the IV Access simulator. Include materials, measurements, and photos/videos wherever possible.
Annotations:
0:00 Overview of materials
0:10 Vein and blood setup
0:25 Skin and tissue layering
0:45 Assembly and sealing
1:00 Testing flashback
Cut 15–20 cm of IV tubing or silicone tubing.
Use a syringe or pump to fill with simulated blood.
Optionally, clamp or connect to a pressure source for flashback. Cut sponge/foam to size (approx. 8 cm wide, 15 cm long, 3 cm deep).
Embed the filled vein horizontally at a shallow depth.
Ensure the vein remains slightly mobile under pressure. Place elastic membrane over the sponge.
Stretch and tape or glue edges down tightly.
Confirm needle can penetrate with resistance and reseal. Place unit in stable container or mount on base.
Test insertion: expect flashback once needle enters tubing.
Practice full IV insertion steps, including taping. Replace vein tubing when leaks occur
Refill blood simulation as needed
Swap skin membrane after multiple punctures
1. Step-by-step example
2. CPAP setup
3. Alternate airway example
