Anaphylaxis simulation session: seeing is believing

Abstract

Introduction: : Massive anaphylactic reactions are rare but potentially life-threatening events. It is recognized that there are concerns in both the immediate management and recognition of the condition. The report describes an innovative approach to develop a simple, low-cost device to simulate a rash on a mannequin as part of an education session.

Methods: : A system was developed to allow a plastic sheet with surface-mounted light-emitting diodes to be placed under the mannequin's chest skin. The light-emitting diodes presence and intensity could be controlled remotely via a potentiometer.

Results: : Staff were initially surprised by the presence of a rash on the mannequin but very quickly used the presence of the rash to support a diagnosis of severe anaphylaxis. Participants appeared to have responded positively to these simulation- reinforced courses on acute anaphylaxis.

Conclusions: : The development of a method to visually demonstrate a rash on a mannequin facilitated some of the educational goals of the course: the importance of skin changes in aiding the diagnosis of acute anaphylaxis and the importance of exposure of the skin of the patient.