Immunization Simulation Using Actual-Size Infant Manikins for Medical Students in Indonesia: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Introduction: Manikins are tools used in simulation training for medical students to develop important skills, one of which is immunization. However, conventional manikins often do not resemble the actual size of an infant's arm or leg. This study aimed to determine the impact of using actual-size manikins on students' knowledge and practical skills, evaluate their confidence in immunization practice, and assess students' responses and feedback regarding the practice using actual-size manikins.

Methods: This was a quasi-experimental study involving medical students at the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, from October 2020 to April 2021. Students in the intervention group used newly developed actual-size infant arm and leg manikins, while the control group used conventional manikins. All students underwent the objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) and the scores were compared between the 2 groups. Within the intervention group, data on pretest and posttest scores, feedback questionnaires, and self-confidence assessments were also obtained and analyzed.

Results: A total of 205 students were included. Statistically significant difference was found in the OSCE scores between the intervention and control groups ( P < 0.01). Students in the intervention group (n = 108) showed significant improvement in knowledge scores after the workshop ( P < 0.01). Most students (81.7%) expressed confidence in administering vaccines to live patients after practicing with manikins. In addition, 98.2% of students (n = 107) acknowledged the benefits of practicing with actual-size manikins in accurately determining the injection sites.

Conclusions: Simulation with the actual-size manikins significantly improved students' knowledge and practical immunization skills, leading to increased confidence and competence in their immunization skills.