The case for the green banana: Using fruit to improve tenaculum placement simulation

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to identify a fruit that would resemble the 'feel' of a uterine cervix when compared to plastic pelvic models.

Study design: A group of experienced clinicians tested six different fruits and evaluated their suitability as a cervical simulation for tenaculum placement.

Results: An unripe (green) banana was rated the highest in seven out of eight characteristics and was the only fruit to achieve a consensus for overall simulation above 70%.

Conclusions: A green banana is an affordable and accessible option to simulate a cervix for procedures requiring tenaculum placement on a cervix.

Keywords: Cervix; Clinical simulation; Intrauterine contraception training; Tenaculum placement.