Assembly and use of a low-cost paracentesis simulator for the teaching of puncture and drainage of ascites.

Objectives: to describe the assembly of a low-cost paracentesis simulator and evaluate its effectiveness, acceptance and impact on the learning of medical students.

Methodology: a paracentesis simulator was built using a mannequin and materials such as plastic bottles, Velcro, polyvinyl chloride sheets and silicone were used. A cross-sectional and experimental study was carried out with undergraduate medical students without previous practical experience with paracentesis, which sought to validate the model, evaluating its benefits in learning and obtaining technical skills.