Simulation-Based Knee Joint Arthrocentesis Workshop for Internal Medicine Residents

Objectives: Knee arthrocentesis is a safe and valuable diagnostic and therapeutic primary care procedure. Enhancing Internal Medicine (IM) residents' competency in this skill is crucial for effective patient care. We implemented a simulation-based knee arthrocentesis workshop (SBKAW) to improve residents' comfort in offering knee joint arthrocentesis in primary care settings. Methods: IM residents from five clinic cohorts participated in an SBKAW that included a presentation of instructional material and hands-on training on simulation knee models, led by a rheumatologist and clinic faculty. Pre- and postintervention online surveys were administered to assess participants' comfort levels in performing knee joint arthrocentesis, before and after the workshop. Results: Sixty-four IM residents participated in the SBKAW, 62 (96.9%) of whom had no prior training on knee joint arthrocentesis. The self-reported comfort level in performing knee arthrocentesis pre- and post-SBKAW was 4.7% (very comfortable 3.1%, comfortable 1.6%) and 84.2% (very comfortable 22.8%, comfortable 61.4%), respectively. Before the SBKAW, 50 (78.1%) and 36 (56.3%) residents reported familiarity with indications and contraindications, respectively, and this improved to 56 (98.2%) residents post-SBKAW. Fifty-four (94.7%) residents reported arthrocentesis as a "very important" or "important" skill for an internist. Forty-eight (84.2%) residents expressed interest in future SB training. Conclusions: Our simulation training highlights the importance of incorporating SBKA into IM residency training curricula, which can enhance patient outcomes and satisfaction, and IM resident training by improving their self-confidence and skills for performing knee arthrocentesis.