Port “Body in a Box”

VATA’s Port “Body in a Box” is a low cost, compact, lightweight, quick to set up and store port access training model for the teaching and practice of palpating and accessing IVADs (Implanted Vascular Access Devices).

This healthcare simulation model is supplied with a real port and it’s possible to simulate accessing the following IVAD placements: normal, “tipping”, “wandering”, and deeply placed. Successful access is confirmed by a simulated blood return, as the model has its own 35cc simulated blood reservoir bag neatly tucked inside it. The two round inserts, used to simulate the “wandering” and “tipping” port, are interchangeable to vary the experience. The tissue flap that is placed over the port has two thicknesses – the 1/4″ side will approximate the feel when palpating a port at an average depth, while the 1/2″ side will approximate the feel when palpating a deeply placed port during simulation.

The skin flap is made of VATA Inc.’s Dermalike II™ material which offers the following unique properties:

-Feels and palpates like human tissue for a more authentic learning experience.
-Tear resistant, extending the lifespan of the product.
-Realistic access experience with minimal needle drag.

The underlying soft tissue block of this model permits the port to “float” when palpating through the skin flap, for a truly realistic port access experience. Accessing can be taught and practiced with the tissue pad in the case or removed from the case. This port training model is a great tool for the learning and practicing of palpating and accessing IVAD, competency testing, and skills assessment!