Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a highly effective and long-term contraceptive method. IUDs are one of the most popular methods to prevent pregnancies and are also used to treat many gynecological problems. While the procedure is a very safe one, it has to be performed with a lot of care to avoid any kind of injury or complication. This can be achieved through proper training and practice. In order to provide effective and efficient training to its healthcare professionals, University of Utah has teamed with MedVR Education to prepare IUD insertion training solutions in virtual reality.
In the words of Katie Ward DNP, WHNP, Professor (Clinical), University of Utah, “The University of Utah is excited to add VR IUD training to our simulation experiences. This will give our students the realistic practice they need to perform the procedure for the first time in a real patient with confidence, skill, and efficiency. Better training improves the patient experience and reduces error and risk.”
Types of IUDs
IUDs are primarily of two types, hormonal and non-hormonal.
– Hormonal IUDs release progestin, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. This leads to a thickening of the cervical mucus and inhibits sperm movement. Once placed, they can prevent pregnancies for up to 8 years.
– Copper IUDs release copper ions which are toxic to sperm, thereby preventing fertilization. These can prevent pregnancies for up to 12 years.
Risks during IUD insertions
IUD insertions are a simple and safe procedure but like any other procedure they too have some risks associated with them.
– Bleeding – Instances of minor bleeding are common during or after the insertion. However, excessive bleeding could be an indication of complications like perforation or infection.
– Perforation – In some rare cases, it is possible for the IUD insertion device to perforate the uterus. This will lead to complications and may require a surgical procedure to remove the device.
– Infection – Infection risks are associated with IUD insertions if proper sterile techniques are not adopted and followed.
– Pain and discomfort – Slight pain and discomfort during insertion can be expected but if it is unbearable, it must be evaluated. A lot depends upon the skill of the professional, the adoption of standard techniques and the tolerance of the patient.
Significance of proper training in efficient IUD insertions
For a well-trained and skilled professional, the procedure of IUD insertion is a very simple one and can be completed within minutes. To ensure that all professionals possess the required skills, it is important to provide them with high quality training and practice opportunities. Proper training is beneficial to professionals and patients in various ways to:
– Reduce errors – Well-trained professionals are confident at their job. They perform the procedure with care and accuracy leading to reduced risks or errors like perforation, infections, or improper placements of IUDs.
– Ensure patient comfort – Skilled professionals are able to minimize patient discomfort and provide an overall comfortable patient experience.
– Address patient concerns – Patients are bound to have concerns and questions regarding the procedure. A trained and practiced professional will be able to address these concerns and provide assuring answers to questions.
– Provide accurate information – Every procedure comes with a set of care instructions that patients are expected to follow. The same goes for IUDs. Skilled professionals are equipped with the knowledge to provide accurate information and provide proper guidance to patients.
Benefits of training with MedVR Education simulations
It has been MedVR Education’s constant effort to provide the best possible training solutions to healthcare professionals. With this goal in mind, continued endeavors have been made to bring about the most effective and efficient innovations to the table. Training with MedVR Education simulations provides users with improved immersive experiences that help them perform to the best of their abilities.
– Realistic scenarios – Scenarios created for MedVR Education simulations closely replicate real-world settings. When a user performs procedures within a simulation, they experience a close-to-reality situation. This further helps in better knowledge retention and replication of acquired skills.
– Safe and controlled environments – Since the scenarios are digitally created and the patients are virtual characters, performing a procedure is absolutely safe. No risks are attached to mistakes and users are able to practice in safe, zero-risk environments.
– Availability of VR and MR modes – Training simulations from MedVR Education are offered in virtual reality (VR) as well as mixed reality (MR). A common complaint that many users have with VR is the feeling of dizziness and motion sickness. With the option to switch between VR and MR, these simulations can now cater to all kinds of users, eliminating the discomfort factor.
– Repeated practice opportunities – A given simulation can be practiced any number of times with no time lag between sessions. Practice is the only way to perfect a skill and with multiple practice sessions available, users can ‘indulge’ in repeated sessions to refine their skills.
– Accessible training – To practice in VR or MR, all that one requires is a headset and some open space. Users can log in at any time of the day from any location and start their training.
– Training and assessment modes – MedVR Education procedure trainings are equipped with two modes, training and assessment. The training mode is a handheld session where users are guided at every step. The assessment mode does not contain guidance and allows users to test their skills. Real-time feedback and a session-end debriefing provide an analysis of user performance.
No matter how simple a procedure, it still takes practice to perform it with confidence and with no risks-attached. The same goes for IUD insertions. It may be a small and simple procedure but is safe only when performed by a trained and skilled professional. This simulation training developed by MedVR Education in partnership with the University of Utah aims to provide professionals with effective training sessions that helps them perform efficiently and provide a comfortable patient experience.
About MedVR Education:
MedVR Education is a continuing education platform, founded with the specific aim of providing immersive and engaging VR training solutions to healthcare professionals. Its dynamically growing library witnesses the addition of 4-5 new solutions every month. MedVR Education is at the forefront of implementing the latest technology in the field of VR and training, ensuring that learners get the best possible learning experience.
Contact us to know more about VR in healthcare training or visit MedVR Education to explore the various programs we offer.
