• Shih-Hsing Yang, Chao-Yu Chen, Wei-Lun Liu, Hsia-Wei Liu, and Ke-Yun Chao.
• Department of Respiratory Therapy, Fu Jen Catholic University Hospital, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan; and Department of Respiratory Therapy, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
• Respir Care. 2024 Apr 22; 69 (5): 549556549-556.

BackgroundThree-dimensional (3D)-printed models are cost-effective and can be customized by trainers. This study designed a 3D-printed airway suction simulator for use by respiratory therapy (RT) students. The objective was to demonstrate the cost-effectiveness and application of 3D-printed models in respiratory care training, aiming to enhance the educational experience for RT students.MethodsThis study developed a 3D-printed airway suction simulator that was cost-effective. A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving RT students to compare effectiveness in a 3D-model group and a control group. Skill assessments and written examinations were used to evaluate the participants' knowledge and skills.ResultsA total of 38 second-year RT students were randomly assigned to either the 3D-model group (n = 19) or the control group (n = 19). One participant in the 3D-model group was lost to follow-up during the planned direct observation of procedural skills (DOPS) assessment and satisfaction questionnaire completion. The posttest written examination scores were significantly higher in the 3D-model group than in the control group (100% vs 80%, P = .02). The scores from the DOPS and satisfaction questionnaire were comparable in the 2 groups.ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that 3D printing can be used to create a safe and cost-effective airway suction simulator for use by RT students, with potential to enhance training methods. Further research is necessary.Copyright © 2024 by Daedalus Enterprises.

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