Traditional teaching methods for emergency department (ED) resuscitative thoracotomy often rely on lectures and
readings, which lack the hands-on training necessary for effective learning and confidence-building. While high-fidelity
simulation models enhance procedural teaching, their high cost can limit accessibility. To address this gap, we developed
and tested a low-cost, low-fidelity simulation model aimed at improving procedural training. Our primary objective was to
create an affordable and functional simulation model for resuscitative thoracotomy for emergency medicine residents, while
our secondary objective was to assess proficiency using this model compared to lecture-only instruction among Rocky Vista
Medical Students. We divided first and second-year medical students into two groups; both groups received a lecture from
an experienced emergency physician and completed pre- and post-lecture knowledge tests. The experimental group had
additional hands-on practice with the simulation model, whereas the control group did not. One week later, all students per-
formed the procedure on the model and were evaluated with a 24-point checklist. Analysis revealed no significant difference
in pre- and post-test scores between groups; however, the experimental group significantly outperformed the control group,
achieving an average score of 20.55 compared to 7.95 out of 24 (p < 0.0005). These findings indicate that hands-on practice
with the simulation model significantly improved procedural performance, highlighting the effectiveness of practical train-
ing in mastering high-acuity, low-occurrence procedures. This low-cost model effectively enhanced procedural skills and
anatomical understanding, contributing to better long-term competency in resuscitative thoracotomy.
