Using Simulation-Based Training to Improve Clinical Outcomes: Central Venous Catheter Placement as a Model for Programmed Training

Simulation-based training is becoming integral to the training of surgical residents. The authors describe the use of simulation-based training to address a specific clinical problem. Cognitive and procedural training in central venous catheter (CVC) placement are used to achieve the goal of decreasing CVC-related complications. Training goals and outcome measures—both educational and clinical—are described. This model of using simulation-based training as a tool to address a specific clinically applicable training need should be extended to additional procedures where a specific educational goal can be targeted.