Indiana University Stops Using Cats for Pediatrics Training Live
cats will no longer have tubes forced into their mouths and
windpipes at Indiana University. Thanks to PCRM, the school is
switching to simulators in its pediatrics residency program.
PCRM had pushed the university to move to nonanimal methods for
teaching endotracheal intubation. In response, the school began
an inquiry into ways to replace animals. Nonanimal education
methods are used by 94 percent of U.S. pediatrics programs
surveyed by PCRM. The school’s residency program director
confirmed the change in a letter to PCRM’s director of academic
affairs John Pippin, M.D. “As you recall from our earlier
communications, we had carefully considered your prior request,”
writes Jerry Rushton, M.D. “The IU Simulation Center will now be
our sole focus of skills training for resident physicians to
learn the skills necessary to stabilize critically ill
neonates.” IU’s move to nonanimal methods follows similar
announcements from medical institutions acr