Construção e validação de simulador de baixo custo para treinamento de punção do port-a-cath

Abstract

This study aimed to construct and validate a low-cost simulator for Port-a-Cath puncture training. It was a methodological study structured in three stages: planning, implementation, and simulator evaluation and validation. Fifteen experts were selected for the final stage. Data collection involved administering a participant characterization questionnaire, a questionnaire to validate functionality and appearance, and another to evaluate the low-cost simulator. Data collection took place between December 2025 and February 2026. Data analysis employed descriptive and inferential statistics—including absolute and relative frequencies, mean and median—as well as the Content Validity Index (CVI), Kappa coefficient, internal consistency, and Cronbach's alpha. The research was approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee (CAAE: 91523025.5.0000.5564). A low-cost Port-a-Cath puncture simulator was developed, enabling the execution of all procedural steps in a manner similar to those performed on a real patient; this included palpating the device through artificial skin, puncturing the device with observed venous reflux, and the capability for medication infusion. Fifteen nurses experienced in puncturing this device participated in the simulator's evaluation and validation; the majority (53.3% or 8 nurses) held a residency in oncology. Results from the Port-a-Cath puncture simulator appearance and functionality assessment instrument showed mean response scores ranging from 3.7 to 4.0, with a median of 4 for all items and low data dispersion, indicating high agreement among the experts. All items achieved an Item-level Content Validity Index (I-CVI) of 1.00, demonstrating that 100% of the experts considered the items appropriate. Regarding the Low-Cost Simulator Evaluation Instrument, responses generally showed high scores on the rating scale, with means ranging from 3.60 to 5.00 and a median of 5 for most items, indicating a predominantly favorable perception of the characteristics analyzed. The CVI-Ave of 0.94 indicates a high level of content validity for the factors assessed by the instrument. Notably, the low-cost Port-a-Cath simulator stood out; its production cost was approximately R$ 211.13—six times lower than that of commercially available models— while also offering a favorable cost-benefit ratio. It is concluded that the use of the Port-a- Cath puncture training simulator has the potential to assist students and professionals in developing their technical and cognitive skills. Thus, its use can help promote patient safety within healthcare institutions by fostering the development and enhancement of the professional competencies required for the safe management and puncture of Port-a-Cath devices.