JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Lumbar puncture in geriatrics can be challenging, requiring technical skill and operator confidence. Simulation provides a valuable opportunity for medical students to practice in a safe environment. Despite the potential of augmented reality simulators, their impact on user experience (UX) across different levels of clinical expertise remains insufficiently investigated.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the user experience of two lumbar puncture simulators: M43E (Kyoto Kagaku), a static anatomical model commonly used in French simulation centers, and the Sim&Care 2 (InSimo), an augmented reality simulator with haptic feedback that is less widely implemented in routine training curricula.

Methods:

This single-center UX study, conducted at the University Hospital of Angers, used a cross-sectional within-subject design among 30 participants (7 Graduated physicians, 16 postgraduate medical students, 7 sixth-year second-cycle medical students), involved 15-minutes use of each simulator. Participants completed a user experience questionnaire (realism, ease of use, perceived educational value), followed by a comparative questionnaire. Non-parametric paired and group comparisons were performed.

Results:

The Sim&Care 2 was considered more realistic, providing better sensations (P=.003) and helped participants learn something new (P=.005). The M43E was considered simpler to use (P=.013). No significant difference was observed in overall satisfaction. Concerning overall preference, graduated physicians favored the Sim&Care 2 model for its anatomical realism and haptic feedback, while sixth-year second cycle medical students preferred the M43E model for its realistic procedure execution.

Conclusions:

These findings highlight the complementarity of the simulators and the need to select the appropriate simulator for training according to the learners’ level of expertise: traditional mannequin-based simulation for initial procedural familiarization and augmented reality simulation to enhance three-dimensional anatomical understanding and sensory feedback.