Journal of clinical rheumatology : practical reports on rheumatic & musculoskeletal diseases
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Arthrocentesis is an important skill for medical practitioners at all levels of training. Previous studies have indicated a low comfort level and performance of arthrocentesis among primary care physicians that could be improved with hands-on training. ⋯ Our study involved a very large number of participants encompassing different levels of training and is the largest number of advanced subspecialty rheumatology residents studied with regard to joint injection training. We have confirmed that a formal joint injection workshop using simulators is an effective method of improving comfort level in arthrocentesis among participants from all levels of medical training. Future studies should evaluate the effect of such training on actual clinical use and competence.