3 T Training Tool: Pink E. D. Cap™

Pink E. D. Cap™ is part of the 3 Ts Training Tools for demonstration, teaching, practice and validation of competency of decapitation euthanasia of neonatal mice. The 3 Ts is a method used to provide training to individuals working with animals in research, testing and teaching settings. The 3 Ts incorporates simple, inexpensive, and effective hand-crafted tools to teach and encourage practice of non-surgical and surgical procedures, prior to conducting similar training and practice on live animals. More information about Translational Training Tools™ here.

Pink E. D. Cap™ is a simple tool made with a soft clay-like substance representing the body of the neonatal or pinkie rodents. The substance is inserted into two layers of either a small balloon or a finger cot. This outer layer represents the subcutaneous and skin. The two layers tend to slide against each other making the balloon layers more mobile similar to skin. Begin the hands-on training by addressing the concept of the tool, and discuss how the tool mimics the decapitation procedure. Because many are challenged by the idea of performing the neonatal decapitation procedure, this tool can help individuals become comfortable with the concept and the aesthetics of performing this procedure. Trainees can practice the hand position and gain an appreciation for the swift and accurate motion applied to the scissors during the procedure. They also have an opportunity to appreciate the importance of having sharp blades on the scissors used for the procedure. 

Ingredients:

• 2 Finger cots
• Soft dough or clay
• 1 small rubber band

Instructions:

1. Roll the dough into a tube shape that is about the size of a rat or mouse neonate
2. Insert the dough into one of the finger cots
3. Insert the dough filled finger cot into a second finger cot
4. Use a small rubber band to secure the open end of the finger cots. This step will prevent drying out the clay or dough prior to using the tool. Alternatively, the ends of the finger cots may be tied; though this method can create too much bulk in the tool.

For images to help guide the process of making a Pink E. D. Cap™, please see The Joy of Training Cookbook, Volume 1, page 51-52, 86. For more information, please contact Dr. Wendy Williams

3 Ts Training Tools consists of the following products: 

• FP Balloon™
  • IM Foosbun™ 
• Venipuncture Tools:
  • Tube Tail™ (venipuncture of the lateral tail vein)
  • Spongy Bunear™ (venipuncture of the rabbit marginal ear vein)
  • Ear Piggy Piggy™ (venipuncture of the marginal ear vein of pigs)
  • Cephalic Tube™ (venipuncture of the canine or feline cephalic vein)
• Cardiac Balloon™ (cardiac-puncture blood collection in rodents)
• CD Mouse™ (validation of competency of cervical dislocation euthanasia in rodents)
• Pink E. D. Cap™ (validation of competency of decapitation euthanasia of neonatal mice)

Please see The Joy of Training Cookbook, Volume 2: (Recipies for crafting your own purpose-specific training tools for surgery practice).

Please see Dexterity Tools™ and Exercises from Volume 2:

1. Macro Dexterity Tools™:

1. 1. Bead Board™
   2. Neuter Board™
   3. Tissue Board™
   4. Nail Board™
   5. Cutting Ring™