Validation of a low-fidelity equine nose twitch model in veterinary nursing education

Equine nose twitch application is a frequently performed restraint technique in clinical practice. It can pose a significant physical safety risk, especially when performed by a novice handler and can be considered an aversive technique for the horse if not clinically indicated and/or performed repeatedly. The objective of this study was to evaluate a low fidelity model designed to teach veterinary nursing students how to apply a nose twitch to a horse without the use of live animals. This low fidelity model demonstrated improved student performance of equine nose twitch application following use, most notably, where to stand when applying and holding the twitch