Ambulance Victoria (AV) is integrating advanced 3D printing technology into its training programs to enhance the skills of Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) paramedics, ensuring they are prepared for critical airway procedures in high-pressure emergency situations.
In partnership with Yarra Ranges Tech School (Box Hill Institute), AV’s Operational Capability Post Graduate and Specialist Education Team has incorporated 3D-printed plastic larynx trainers, known as ‘cric trainers,’ into its training framework.
These devices enable paramedics to practise cricothyroidotomy, a life-saving procedure that involves making an incision in the neck to establish an airway when conventional intubation is not possible, as revealed in a news release.
Ambulance Victoria’s Post Graduate and Specialist Education (MICA) Lead, Sam Caldow, said the introduction of cric trainers has enhanced paramedic training by providing a realistic and practical simulation of the procedure.
“These cric trainers have fundamentally improved how we review and refine our skills,” Caldow said.
“Paramedics who have performed the procedure on a patient after training with the 3D-printed models have reported strong similarities, reinforcing the fidelity and effectiveness of this technology.”
Since the partnership began in 2021, more than 170 cric trainers have been produced and utilised in over 110 training sessions.
Participants in AV’s MICA Bridging Program now receive individual cric trainers to support their skill development during training and at their branch.
“Since the introduction of the 3D training, we have seen an almost 95 per cent success rate in performing cricothyroidotomy,” Caldow said.
“This highlights the value of innovative training materials that help prepare our people for all situations.”
The cric trainers are produced at Yarra Ranges Tech School using a downloadable 3D file, allowing AV to customise and refine training resources while significantly reducing costs.
Yarra Ranges Tech School Director Travis Burroughs said the collaboration with AV has also provided a valuable learning opportunity for students.
“Producing the cric trainers helps students learn how 3D printing can be used to solve real-world problems. Students feel a great sense of purpose, knowing their work helps AV’s paramedics to save lives,” Burroughs explained.
