Comparison of Game-Based Learning and Model Arm Practice for Teaching Intravenous Cannulation to Dental Students

NCT07060924 | Completed

• 1 other identifier: AnkaraU 8/23
• Study Type: interventional
• Target: 60
• Locations: 1 country
• Sites: 1

Brief Summary

This randomized controlled study aimed to compare the effectiveness of game-based learning (GBL) and model arm practice in teaching peripheral intravenous cannulation (PIVC) skills to final-year dental students. Sixty participants were randomly assigned to two groups. The impact of each method was assessed in terms of procedural success, anxiety levels (STAI), self-confidence (VAS), and student satisfaction.

Conditions

Dental Education and Special Care Dentistry

Outcome Measures

Primary Outcomes (2)

• Procedural Success Rate in Clinical Application

  The rate of successful intravenous cannulation performed by students on real patients under supervision. Success was defined as a successful puncture and catheter placement on the first or second attempt. Assessed by an anesthesiologist during clinical practice.

  Within 1 week after training

• Change in Self-Confidence Level (VAS Score)

  Students marked their perceived self-confidence regarding PIVC on a 10-cm visual analog scale (0 = no confidence, 10 = full confidence). Measurements were taken both after training and after clinical application.

  From pre-training to post-clinical application (within 2 weeks)

Secondary Outcomes (2)

• Change in State Anxiety Level (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory - State Scale)

  Baseline (pre-training), immediately after training, and immediately after clinical application (all within 2 weeks)

• Satisfaction with Training Method (Likert Questionnaire)

  Immediately after training

Study Arms (2)

Arm A (GBL Group)

EXPERIMENTAL

Training with 3D Medsim game-based platform for intravenous cannulation before patient application

Behavioral: Game-Based Learning (GBL)

Arm B (Model Arm Group)

EXPERIMENTAL

Practical training on a circulation model arm for intravenous cannulation before patient application

Behavioral: Model Arm Practice

Interventions

Game-Based Learning (GBL) BEHAVIORAL

Participants in this group received practical training in peripheral intravenous cannulation (PIVC) using a game-based learning (GBL) simulation platform called 3D Medsim. The platform offered a scenario-based training environment that included a structured sequence of pre-test, simulated procedural performance, and post-test. Students were required to perform virtual tasks such as preparing the patient, selecting the correct equipment, identifying the puncture site, and performing cannulation. The simulation provided interactive feedback and scoring. The application was accessible via PC, tablet, or smartphone, allowing students to practice flexibly. Training was conducted under the supervision of an anesthesiologist.

Arm A (GBL Group)

Model Arm Practice BEHAVIORAL

Participants in this group practiced PIVC using a high-fidelity model arm simulator designed to replicate human anatomy and venous access. The training model included artificial veins (basilic, cephalic, median cubital, and metacarpal) with realistic skin layers and a circulation system that mimicked blood flow. Students practiced cannulation techniques including vein localization, needle insertion, and catheter placement. The hands-on training provided tactile and visual feedback, and all procedures were supervised by an anesthesiologist. This method aimed to develop psychomotor skills and confidence through realistic simulation.

Arm B (Model Arm Group)

Eligibility Criteria

• Sex: all
• Healthy Volunteers: Yes
• Age Groups: Child (0-17), Adult (18-64), Older Adult (65+)

You may qualify if:

• Final-year dental students at Ankara University
• No prior experience with PIVC
• Volunteered and provided informed consent

You may not qualify if:

• Any prior practical experience in intravenous cannulation
• Refusal to participate

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Ankara University: lead

Study Sites (1)

Ankara University, Faculty of Dentistry

Ankara, 06560, Turkey (Türkiye)

Location

Study Design

• Study Type: interventional
• Phase: not applicable
• Allocation: RANDOMIZED
• Masking: NONE
• Purpose: OTHER
• Intervention Model: PARALLEL
• Sponsor Type: OTHER
• Responsible Party: PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
• PI Title: Associated Professor

Study Record Dates

• First Submitted: July 2, 2025
• First Posted: July 11, 2025
• Study Start: April 20, 2025
• Primary Completion: June 15, 2025
• Study Completion: June 20, 2025
• Last Updated: July 16, 2025

Record last verified: 2025-07

Locations

TU (1)