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Lake S, Brydges R, Penney C, Wilson D, Sweezie R, Bagovich M, Bong D, Barr S, Stroud L. Online vs in-person musculoskeletal ultrasound course: a cohort comparison study. Ultrasound J 2024; 16:30. [PMID: 38819664 PMCID: PMC11143147 DOI: 10.1186/s13089-024-00375-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Point-of-care musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound (US) courses are typically held in-person. The COVID-19 pandemic guidelines forced courses to switch to online delivery. To determine this impact, we conducted an observational cohort study, comparing homework completion and image quality between an Online and a historical In-person cohort. METHODS The In-person (n = 27) and Online (n = 24) cohorts attended two learning sessions spaced six months apart. The course content was the same, while the process of delivery differed. As homework, participants submitted US images biweekly for up to five months after each session. Expert faculty provided written feedback to all participants, and two independent reviewers rated the image quality for a subset of participants in each group who had completed at least 70% of their homework (In-person, n = 9; Online, n = 9). Participants self-reported their satisfaction through post-course evaluation. RESULTS 63% of In-Person and 71% of Online cohort participants submitted their homework images. We observed no differences in the mean amount of homework images submitted for In-person (M = 37.3%, SD = 42.6%) and Online cohorts (M = 48.1%, SD = 38.8%; p > 0.05, Mann-Whitney U Test). At course end, the cohorts did not differ in overall image quality (p > 0.05, Wilcoxon Signed-rank Test). All participants reported high levels of satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS A convenience sample of participants attending a basic MSK US course in-person and online did not differ statistically in homework completion, quality of submitted US images, or course satisfaction. We add to literature suggesting online learning remains a viable option post-pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Lake
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Toronto, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, 2075 Bayview Avenue, M4N3M5, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Ryan Brydges
- Department of Medicine, Unity Health Toronto, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Chris Penney
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | | | | | - Maria Bagovich
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Toronto, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, 2075 Bayview Avenue, M4N3M5, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David Bong
- University of Barcelona School of Medicine, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susan Barr
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Lynfa Stroud
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Höhne E, Recker F, Brossart P, Schäfer VS. Teledidactic Versus Hands-on Teaching of Abdominal, Thoracic, and Thyroid Ultrasound-The TELUS II Study. J Gen Intern Med 2024:10.1007/s11606-024-08760-4. [PMID: 38609706 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-024-08760-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic has initiated a change in medical education and the development of new teaching concepts has become inevitable to maintain adequate training. OBJECTIVE This pilot study aims to compare teledidactic teaching with traditional face-to-face teaching for abdominal, thoracic, and thyroid ultrasound. DESIGN Concurrently, a teledidactic and a face-to-face ultrasound course were held. The students completed seven 90-min modules using mobile ultrasound probes (Butterfly IQ). Each module consisted of a lecture, a demonstration of probe guidance, and independent training. PARTICIPANTS A total of thirty medical students took part in the study and were randomly assigned to a teledidactic and a face-to-face group. MAIN MEASURES An objective structured assessment of ultrasound skills (OSAUS) was performed as a pre-test and as the final exam and ultrasound images obtained during the exam were evaluated using the brightness mode quality ultrasound imaging examination (B-QUIET) scale. KEY RESULTS No significant difference between the two cohorts on the OSAUS final exam was shown (p > 0.05 in all modules). There was a significant difference in the assessment of the images in the focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST) (p 0.015) and aorta (p 0.017) modules. Students in the teledidactic group performed better in both modules, scoring 33.59 (± 2.61) out of 44 in the module FAST (face-to-face group 30.95 (± 1.76)) and aortic images averaged 35.41 (± 2.61) points (face-to-face group 32.35 (± 3.08)). CONCLUSIONS A teledidactic course for abdominal and thoracic ultrasound examinations is equally effective to traditional face-to-face teaching in this pilot study. Digital implementation with a portable ultrasound machine could be a great opportunity to promote ultrasound education worldwide and over great distances.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Höhne
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Clinic of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - F Recker
- Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
| | - P Brossart
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Clinic of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - V S Schäfer
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Clinic of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Bui C, Parange N, Bezak E, Bidner A. The Role of Telehealth in Ultrasound Training for Remote Learners: A Systematic Review. Telemed J E Health 2024; 30:963-975. [PMID: 38052050 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2023.0396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Remote learners and educators face geographic, professional, and personal barriers that affect their access to quality ultrasound education. The integration of telehealth in ultrasound education enables learners performing ultrasound to receive real-time instruction from an educator at a distant or remote site. However, to date, there has been poor understanding of the efficacy, benefits, shortcomings, and economic impact of telehealth education in comparison to in-person ultrasound training. The aim of this research was to assess current literature on telehealth in ultrasound education and hands-on training, its outcomes and impact, and requirements for future development. Methods: This review examined international literature on telehealth in ultrasound training. The primary author and second investigator were involved in the research and reached consensus on the eligibility criteria, search strategy, included articles, data extraction, and quality assessment. Results: A total of 23 studies were obtained from Medline, Emcare and Scopus. Key themes identified: Most studies saw an equivalent improvement in knowledge and skills through pre and postassessments in both in-person and telehealth sessions. Generally, learners felt comfortable performing ultrasound guided by a remote educator and felt their skills had been advanced across all studies. Educators reported positive feedback, however compared with learners, educators expressed less satisfaction with the telehealth session. Conclusions: This study demonstrated the feasibility of telehealth in ultrasound training for remote learners with little to no experience. Quality studies with comparable outcomes are needed to ascertain the safe and effective application of telehealth in ultrasound training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catthy Bui
- Department of Allied Health and Human Performance Unit, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Nayana Parange
- Department of Allied Health and Human Performance Unit, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Eva Bezak
- Department of Allied Health and Human Performance Unit, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia
- Department of Physics, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Amber Bidner
- Department of Allied Health and Human Performance Unit, The University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia
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Flores MJ, Brown KE, MacKechnie MC, O’Marr JM, Rodarte P, Shearer DW. An Analysis of Participant Preferences Regarding Virtual Versus In-person Format of Orthopaedic Surgery Educational Materials in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev 2024; 8:01979360-202403000-00003. [PMID: 38437056 PMCID: PMC10906641 DOI: 10.5435/jaaosglobal-d-23-00134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The University of California, San Francisco Institute for Global Orthopaedics and Traumatology Surgical Management and Reconstructive Training (SMART) course has instructed orthopaedic surgeons from low-resource countries on soft-tissue reconstruction. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the course was conducted in-person; however, it was transitioned to a virtual format during the pandemic. The aim of this study was to determine participant preferences regarding a virtual or in-person SMART course format. METHODS Survey data were collected via e-mail after each SMART course using RedCap or Qualtrics. Statistical analyses were conducted using Stata. RESULTS There were 247 survey respondents from 44 countries representing all world regions, with Africa (125, 51%) the most represented. Of those who attended both an in-person and virtual course, most (82%) preferred the in-person format. In addition, all measured course outcomes were significantly better for participants attending the in-person course. The most common reason for not attending an in-person course was the cost of travel (38, 51%). DISCUSSION This study demonstrated a preference toward in-person learning for the SMART course. In addition, those surgeons participating in the in-person course endorsed increased positive outcomes from the course. Increased emphasis should be placed on in-person surgical skills training for low-resource surgeons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Flores
- From the Institute for Global Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Kelsey E. Brown
- From the Institute for Global Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Madeline C. MacKechnie
- From the Institute for Global Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Jamieson M. O’Marr
- From the Institute for Global Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Patricia Rodarte
- From the Institute for Global Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - David W. Shearer
- From the Institute for Global Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
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Harel-Sterling M. Can you teach a hands-on skill online? A scoping review of e-learning for point-of-care ultrasound in medical education. CANADIAN MEDICAL EDUCATION JOURNAL 2023; 14:66-77. [PMID: 38226294 PMCID: PMC10787851 DOI: 10.36834/cmej.75272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Background There is an increasing need and interest in teaching point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) online. The objective of this study was to systematically review the literature regarding e-learning as a method for teaching POCUS in medical education, to assess the benefits and limitations of various styles of e-learning for POCUS, and to identify gaps in the literature that could help guide future research in this field. Methods A literature search was conducted on three databases including MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Clinical Trials on October 12, 2021, retrieving a total of 1630 studies. 31 studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. These studies were separated into different styles of e-learning and learner outcomes were analyzed based on Kirkpatrick's hierarchy. Results The studies were categorized into three styles of e-learning: a) blended learning b) online-only (asynchronous or synchronous) and c) use of handheld machines or telesonography. POCUS knowledge and image interpretation were successfully taught online, however online-only learning for image acquisition was not as consistently effective. Blended learning and telesonography were beneficial for learning image acquisition skills. Generally, novice learners benefited most from e-learning. Conclusion E-learning for POCUS is gaining in popularity in recent years. POCUS is a complex technical skill, and depending on the individual task being taught, different styles of e-learning may be more successful. These findings can inform future POCUS educational programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Harel-Sterling
- Division of Paediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Ontario, Canada
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Gao X, Lv Q, Hou S. Progress in the Application of Portable Ultrasound Combined with Artificial Intelligence in Pre-Hospital Emergency and Disaster Sites. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:3388. [PMID: 37958284 PMCID: PMC10649742 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13213388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
With the miniaturization of ultrasound and the development of artificial intelligence, its application in disaster scenes and pre-hospital emergency care has become more and more common. This study summarizes the literature on portable ultrasound in pre-hospital emergency and disaster scene treatment in the past decade and reviews the development and application of portable ultrasound. Portable ultrasound diagnostic equipment can be used to diagnose abdominal bleeding, limb fracture, hemopneumothorax, pericardial effusion, etc., based on which trauma can be diagnosed pre-hospital and provide guiding suggestions for the next triage and rescue; in early rescue, portable ultrasound can guide emergency operations, such as tracheal intubation, pericardial cavity puncture, and thoracic and abdominal puncture as well as improve the accuracy and timeliness of operation techniques. In addition, with the development of artificial intelligence (AI), AI-assisted diagnosis can improve the diagnosis level of ultrasound at disaster sites. The portable ultrasound diagnosis system equipped with an AI robotic arm can maximize the pre-screening classification and fast and concise diagnosis and treatment of batch casualties, thus providing a reliable basis for batch casualty classification and evacuation at disaster accident sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Gao
- Tianjin University Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin 300211, China;
- Institution of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Rescue Key Technology and Equipment, Ministry of Emergency Management, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Qi Lv
- Institution of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Rescue Key Technology and Equipment, Ministry of Emergency Management, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Shike Hou
- Institution of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Rescue Key Technology and Equipment, Ministry of Emergency Management, Tianjin 300072, China
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Grubic N, Belliveau DJ, Herr JE, Nihal S, Wong SWS, Lam J, Gauthier S, Montague SJ, Durbin J, Mulvagh SL, Johri AM. Training of Non-expert Users Using Remotely Delivered, Point-of-Care Tele-Ultrasound: A Proof-of-Concept Study in 2 Canadian Communities. Ultrasound Q 2023; 39:118-123. [PMID: 36197076 DOI: 10.1097/ruq.0000000000000622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Many physicians, particularly those practicing in remote regions, lack training opportunities to develop point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) skills. This pretest-posttest study quantified the skill improvement of learners after participating in a virtual training program that used real-time, remotely delivered point-of-care tele-ultrasound (tele-POCUS) for teaching and learner feedback provision. Ten physicians practicing in an urban tertiary (Kingston, Ontario, Canada, n = 6) or remote care center (Moose Factory, Ontario, Canada, n = 4) completed a 3-week educational program that consisted of e-learning module review, independent image acquisition practice, and expert-guided tele-POCUS consultations. Pretraining and posttraining assessments were performed to evaluate skill enhancement in image acquisition, image quality, and image interpretation for cardiac and lung/pleura POCUS using a 5-point Likert scale. A total of 76 tele-POCUS consultations were performed during the study period. Significant improvements in image quality were noted following remotely delivered mentorship and guidance (all P < 0.01). In cardiac POCUS, pretraining and posttraining comparisons noted significant improvements in image acquisition (means, 2.69-4.33; P < 0.02), quality (means, 2.40-4.03; P < 0.01), and interpretation (means, 2.50-4.40; P < 0.02). In lung/pleura POCUS, significant improvements in image acquisition (means, 3.00-4.43; P < 0.01), quality (means, 3.23-4.37; P < 0.01), and interpretation (means, 3.00-4.40; P < 0.01) were demonstrated. Introductory ultrasound can be taught to novice users using a virtual, live-streamed training format with tele-POCUS while demonstrating significant enhancement in imaging skills.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Salwa Nihal
- Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario
| | | | - Jeffrey Lam
- Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario
| | | | | | | | - Sharon L Mulvagh
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Schroeder AN, Amin I, Bowen BJ, Callender SS, Ferderber M, Kerr HA, Phillips SF, Romero JM, Rudolph L, Vidlock K, Waterbrook AL, Kruse RC. Implementing a Sports Ultrasound Curriculum in Undergraduate Medical Education. Curr Sports Med Rep 2023; 22:328-335. [PMID: 37678352 DOI: 10.1249/jsr.0000000000001099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The utilization of sports ultrasound in the clinical practice of sports medicine physicians is growing rapidly. Simultaneously, ultrasound is being increasingly implemented as a teaching tool in undergraduate medical education. However, a sports ultrasound curriculum for medical students has not been previously described. In this article, we describe methods as well as barriers to implementing a sports ultrasound curriculum at the medical school level. Recommended content for the curriculum also is discussed. While educational goals and resources will vary among institutions, this article may serve as a general roadmap for the creation of a successful curriculum.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Idris Amin
- Department of Neurology and Orthopaedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Brady J Bowen
- Department of Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY
| | | | - Megan Ferderber
- Department of Family Medicine, East Carolina University Brody School of Medicine, Greenville, NC
| | - Hamish A Kerr
- Department Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY
| | - Shawn F Phillips
- Family and Community Medicine and Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA
| | - Joshua M Romero
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | | | - Kathryn Vidlock
- Family Medicine and Ultrasound, Rocky Vista University, Parker, CO
| | - Anna L Waterbrook
- Sports and Emergency Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
| | - Ryan C Kruse
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa Sports Medicine, Iowa City, IA
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9
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Denisov D, Castro-Olmo C, Charondo LB, Yang H, Van Schaik S, Bayne D. Effects of standardized language on remote ultrasound-guided percutaneous nephrolithotomy training: A mixed-methods explorative pilot study. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19629. [PMID: 37809923 PMCID: PMC10558858 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Remote teaching of procedural skills has demonstrated equivalence in knowledge acquisition compared to in-person teaching. Variations in terminology for probe and needle movements may serve as a barrier in remote training of ultrasound (US)-guided renal access for percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). This pilot study investigated the utility of standardized terminology in remote training of US-guided renal access for PCNL. Hypothesis Standardization of verbal terminology to describe US probe and needle movement instruction improves remote teaching of US-guided renal access. Methods Fifteen urology residents (PGY1-6) were stratified by year and randomized into two groups. We provided participants with images illustrating US probe and needle movements labeled with predetermined standardized terminology for the intervention group and images without labels for the control group. Both groups were asked to perform US-guided renal access on a training mannequin with a remote faculty educator with (intervention) or without (control) use of standardized movement instructions. Quantitative outcomes included number of attempts and time to achieve access. All trainees completed pre- and post-session surveys and participated in focus groups; authors conducted thematic analysis of focus group transcripts. Results Differences in primary outcomes between groups, including number of attempts and time to achieve access of the renal pole, were not statistically significant. Analysis of focus group interviews revealed that the use of standardized terminology in the setting of remote training can reduce trainee confusion by clarifying ambiguity in educator feedback. Discussion Use of standardized terminology during remote surgical skills training allows for more effective feedback to trainees.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Denisov
- School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Coral Castro-Olmo
- School of Medicine, Universidad Central del Caribe, Bayamón, PR, Puerto Rico
| | | | - Heiko Yang
- Department of Urology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sandrijn Van Schaik
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - David Bayne
- Department of Urology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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10
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Shabir D, Anjum A, Hamza H, Padhan J, Al-Ansari A, Yaacoub E, Mohammed A, Navkar NV. Development and Evaluation of a Mixed-Reality Tele-ultrasound System. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2023; 49:1867-1874. [PMID: 37263893 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2023.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this feasibility study was to develop and assess a tele-ultrasound system that would enable an expert sonographer (situated at the remote site) to provide real-time guidance to an operator (situated at the imaging site) using a mixed-reality environment. METHODS An architecture along with the operational workflow of the system is designed and a prototype is developed that enables guidance in form of audiovisual cues. The visual cues comprise holograms (of the ultrasound images and ultrasound probe) and is rendered to the operator using a head-mounted display device. The position and orientation of the ultrasound probe's hologram are remotely controlled by the expert sonographer and guide the placement of a physical ultrasound probe at the imaging site. The developed prototype was evaluated for its performance on a network. In addition, a user study (with 12 participants) was conducted to assess the operator's ability to align the probe under different guidance modes. RESULTS The network performance revealed the view of the imaging site and ultrasound images were transferred to the remote site in 233 ± 42 and 158 ± 38 ms, respectively. The expert sonographer was able to transfer, to the imaging site, data related to position and orientation of the ultrasound probe's hologram in 78 ± 13 ms. The user study indicated that the audiovisual cues are sufficient for an operator to position and orient a physical probe for accurate depiction of the targeted tissue (p < 0.001). The probe's placement translational and rotational errors were 1.4 ± 0.6 mm and 5.4 ± 2.2º. CONCLUSION The work illustrates the feasibility of using a mixed-reality environment for effective communication between an expert sonographer (ultrasound physician) and an operator. Further studies are required to determine its applicability in a clinical setting during tele-ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehlela Shabir
- Department of Surgery, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Arshak Anjum
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hawa Hamza
- Department of Surgery, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | - Elias Yaacoub
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Amr Mohammed
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nikhil V Navkar
- Department of Surgery, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.
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Lucius C, Nielsen MB, Blaivas M, Burmester E, Westerway SC, Chu CY, Condous G, Cui XW, Dong Y, Harrison G, Koch J, Kraus B, Nolsøe CP, Nayahangan LJ, Pedersen MRV, Saftoiu A, Savitsky E, Dietrich CF. The use of simulation in medical ultrasound: Current perspectives on applications and practical implementation (WFUMB state-of-the-art paper). Endosc Ultrasound 2023; 12:311-318. [PMID: 37693111 PMCID: PMC10437199 DOI: 10.1097/eus.0000000000000022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Simulation has been shown to improve clinical learning outcomes, speed up the learning process, and improve trainee confidence, while taking the pressure off initial face-to-face patient clinical areas. The second part of The World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology state-of-the-art paper on the use of simulators provides a general approach on the practical implementation. The importance of needs assessment before developing a simulation-based training program is outlined. We describe the current practical implementation and critically analyze how simulators can be integrated into complex task scenarios to train small or large groups. A wide range of simulation equipment is available especially for those seeking interventional ultrasound training, ranging from animal tissue models, simple synthetic phantoms, to sophisticated high-fidelity simulation platforms using virtual reality. Virtual reality simulators provide feedback and thereby allow trainees to not only to practice their motor skills and hand eye coordination but also to interact with the simulator. Future developments will integrate more elements of automated assessment and artificial intelligence, thereby enabling enhanced realistic training experience and improving skill transfer into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Lucius
- Outpatient Department of Gastroenterology, IBD center, Policlinic Helios Klinikum Buch, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Michael Blaivas
- University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Eike Burmester
- Medizinische Klinik I, Sana Kliniken Luebeck, Luebeck, Germany
| | | | - Chit Yan Chu
- Acute Gynaecology, Early Pregnancy and Advanced Endosurgery Unit, Sydney Medical School Nepean, University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - George Condous
- Acute Gynaecology, Early Pregnancy and Advanced Endosurgery Unit, Sydney Medical School Nepean, University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Xin-Wu Cui
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yi Dong
- Department of Ultrasound, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 1665 Kongjiang Road, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Gill Harrison
- Society and College of Radiographers, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonas Koch
- Kliniken Hirslanden Bern, Beau Site, Salem und Permanence, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Kraus
- University of Applied Sciences FH Campus Wien, Health Sciences, Radiological Technology, Sonography, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian Pállson Nolsøe
- Centre for Surgical Ultrasound, Dep of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Køge and Copenhagen Academy for Medical Education and Simulation (CAMES), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Leizl Joy Nayahangan
- Centre for Surgical Ultrasound, Dep of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Køge and Copenhagen Academy for Medical Education and Simulation (CAMES), University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Adrian Saftoiu
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, ELIAS Emergency University Hospital, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest, Romania
| | - Eric Savitsky
- UCLA Emergency Medicine Residency Program. Ronald Reagan Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Remskar MH, Theophanous R, Bowman A, Simonson LE, Koehler J, Basrai Z, Manohar CM, Mader MJ, Nathanson R, Soni NJ. Current Use, Training, and Barriers of Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Anesthesiology: A National Survey of Veterans Affairs Hospitals. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2023:S1053-0770(23)00229-X. [PMID: 37120325 DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2023.03.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to determine current use, training needs, and barriers to point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) use among anesthesiologists in practice. DESIGN Multicenter, prospective, observational study. SETTING Anesthesiology departments in the Veterans Affairs Healthcare System in the United States. PARTICIPANTS Chiefs of staff and chiefs of anesthesiology departments. INTERVENTIONS A web-based survey was conducted between June 2019 and March 2020. Chiefs of staff answered questions about facility-level POCUS use, training, competency, and policies. Anesthesiology chiefs responded to a follow-up survey with specialty-specific POCUS questions. The results of the 2020 survey were compared with a similar survey conducted by the authors' group in 2015. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS All chiefs of staff (n = 130) and 77% of anesthesiology chiefs (n = 96) completed the survey. The most common POCUS applications used were central and peripheral vascular access (69%-72%), peripheral nerve blocks (66%), and evaluation of cardiac function (29%-31%). Compared with 2015, there was a statistically significant increase in desire for training (p = 0.00015), but no significant change in POCUS use (p = 0.31). Training was most desired for volume-status assessment (52%), left ventricular function (47%), pneumothorax (47%), central line placement (40%), peripheral nerve blocks (40%), and pleural effusion (40%). The most common barriers to POCUS use were lack of funding for training (35%), trained providers (33%), and training opportunities (28%). CONCLUSIONS A significant increase in desire for POCUS training was seen among anesthesiologists practicing in the Veterans Affairs healthcare system since 2015, and lack of training continues to be a top barrier for POCUS use among anesthesiologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojca H Remskar
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN; Anesthesiology Service, Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Minneapolis, MN.
| | - Rebecca Theophanous
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC; Emergency Medicine, Durham VA Healthcare System, Durham, NC
| | - Amber Bowman
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC; Medicine Service, Durham VA Healthcare System, Durham, NC
| | | | - Jessica Koehler
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI; Emergency Medicine, Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Zahir Basrai
- Emergency Medicine, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA; Department of Emergency Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Crystal M Manohar
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX; Department of Anesthesiology Service, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX
| | - Michael J Mader
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Research Service, San Antonio, TX
| | - Robert Nathanson
- Medicine Service, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
| | - Nilam J Soni
- Medicine Service, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX
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13
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Russell FM, Herbert A, Lobo D, Ferre R, Nti BK. Evaluation of Point-of-Care Ultrasound Training for Family Physicians Using Teleultrasound. Fam Med 2023; 55:263-266. [PMID: 37043188 PMCID: PMC10622021 DOI: 10.22454/fammed.2023.469019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The goal of this study was to assess family physicians' change in knowledge and ability to perform abdominal aorta ultrasound after implementation of a novel teleultrasound curriculum. METHODS This was a prospective, observational study conducted at a single academic institution. Family physicians completed a preassessment, test, and objective structured clinical evaluation (OSCE). Physicians then individually completed a standard curriculum consisting of online content and an hour-long, hands-on training session on abdominal aorta ultrasound using teleultrasound technology. Physicians then performed a minimum of 10 independent examinations over a period of 8 weeks. After physicians completed the training curriculum and 10 independent scans, we administered a postassessment, test, and OSCE. We analyzed differences between pre- and postcurriculum responses using Fisher exact and Wilcoxon signed rank tests. RESULTS Thirteen family physicians completed the curriculum. Comparing pre- to postcurriculum responses, we found significant reductions in barriers to using aorta POCUS and improved confidence in using, obtaining, and interpreting aorta POCUS (P<0.01). Knowledge improved from a median score of 70% to 90% (P<0.01), and OSCE scores improved from a median of 80% to 100% (P=0.012). Overall, 211 aorta ultrasound examinations were independently acquired with a median image quality of 4 (scale 1 to 4). CONCLUSIONS After an 8-week teleultrasound curriculum, family physicians with minimal experience with POCUS showed improved knowledge and psychomotor skill in abdominal aorta POCUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances M. Russell
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN
| | - Audrey Herbert
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN
| | - Daniela Lobo
- Department of Family Medicine, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN
| | - Robinson Ferre
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN
| | - Benjamin K. Nti
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN
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14
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Aggarwal S, Shanmugam R, Knight T, Atkin C, Clare S, Smallwood N, Lasserson D. Geographic variation in point of care ultrasound provision: results from a national audit. Ultrasound J 2023; 15:16. [PMID: 36943576 PMCID: PMC10030694 DOI: 10.1186/s13089-023-00314-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is an emerging consensus that point-of-care ultrasound is an essential skill in acute care. This is reflected in recent changes to the Acute Internal Medicine curriculum in the UK. The need to develop and maintain specific ultrasound competencies is now a mandatory component of training. There is a degree of uncertainty as to how existing training infrastructure can best accommodate these changes. METHODS Data were obtained from the latest annual Society for Acute Medicine Benchmarking Audit 2021. All Acute Medical Units in the UK are eligible to participate. Data pertaining to the number of ultrasound machines and number of clinicians that regularly use point of care ultrasound were collected. This was used to develop a series of maps demonstrating variation in provision at the national level. RESULTS In total, 123 AMUs responded to the questions related to ultrasound prevalence and numbers of trained clinicians. Of these, 78.9% (97/123) reported having access to at least one ultrasound machine. There was at least one clinician that regularly used ultrasound in 81 responding hospitals (65.9%). There was significant geographic heterogeneity in the use of ultrasound and availability of accredited supervisors. At a regional level, ultrasound expertise is typically concentrated within a relatively small number of hospitals. CONCLUSION Geographic variation in the use of ultrasound and availability of registered supervisors represents a significant challenge to ultrasound training provision at the national level. Targeted interventions in areas with less developed training infrastructure, such as regional training hubs may be required to ensure more equitable access to training opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Aggarwal
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Reshma Shanmugam
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Thomas Knight
- Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Birmingham Acute Care Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Catherine Atkin
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Birmingham Acute Care Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sarbjit Clare
- Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Daniel Lasserson
- School of Medicine, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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Demi L, Wolfram F, Klersy C, De Silvestri A, Ferretti VV, Muller M, Miller D, Feletti F, Wełnicki M, Buda N, Skoczylas A, Pomiecko A, Damjanovic D, Olszewski R, Kirkpatrick AW, Breitkreutz R, Mathis G, Soldati G, Smargiassi A, Inchingolo R, Perrone T. New International Guidelines and Consensus on the Use of Lung Ultrasound. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2023; 42:309-344. [PMID: 35993596 PMCID: PMC10086956 DOI: 10.1002/jum.16088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Following the innovations and new discoveries of the last 10 years in the field of lung ultrasound (LUS), a multidisciplinary panel of international LUS experts from six countries and from different fields (clinical and technical) reviewed and updated the original international consensus for point-of-care LUS, dated 2012. As a result, a total of 20 statements have been produced. Each statement is complemented by guidelines and future developments proposals. The statements are furthermore classified based on their nature as technical (5), clinical (11), educational (3), and safety (1) statements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libertario Demi
- Department of Information Engineering and Computer ScienceUniversity of TrentoTrentoItaly
| | - Frank Wolfram
- Department of Thoracic and Vascular SurgerySRH Wald‐Klinikum GeraGeraGermany
| | - Catherine Klersy
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology and BiostatisticsFondazione IRCCS Policlinico S. MatteoPaviaItaly
| | - Annalisa De Silvestri
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology and BiostatisticsFondazione IRCCS Policlinico S. MatteoPaviaItaly
| | | | - Marie Muller
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace EngineeringNorth Carolina State UniversityRaleighNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Douglas Miller
- Department of RadiologyMichigan MedicineAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Francesco Feletti
- Department of Diagnostic ImagingUnit of Radiology of the Hospital of Ravenna, Ausl RomagnaRavennaItaly
- Department of Translational Medicine and for RomagnaUniversità Degli Studi di FerraraFerraraItaly
| | - Marcin Wełnicki
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine and CardiologyMedical University of WarsawWarsawPoland
| | - Natalia Buda
- Department of Internal Medicine, Connective Tissue Disease and GeriatricsMedical University of GdanskGdanskPoland
| | - Agnieszka Skoczylas
- Geriatrics DepartmentNational Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and RehabilitationWarsawPoland
| | - Andrzej Pomiecko
- Clinic of Pediatrics, Hematology and OncologyUniversity Clinical CenterGdańskPoland
| | - Domagoj Damjanovic
- Heart Center Freiburg University, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of FreiburgFreiburgGermany
| | - Robert Olszewski
- Department of Gerontology, Public Health and DidacticsNational Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and RehabilitationWarsawPoland
| | - Andrew W. Kirkpatrick
- Departments of Critical Care Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of Calgary and the TeleMentored Ultrasound Supported Medical Interventions Research GroupCalgaryCanada
| | - Raoul Breitkreutz
- FOM Hochschule für Oekonomie & Management gGmbHDepartment of Health and SocialEssenGermany
| | - Gebhart Mathis
- Emergency UltrasoundAustrian Society for Ultrasound in Medicine and BiologyViennaAustria
| | - Gino Soldati
- Diagnostic and Interventional Ultrasound UnitValledel Serchio General HospitalLuccaItaly
| | - Andrea Smargiassi
- Pulmonary Medicine Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical SciencesFondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCSRomeItaly
- Department of Internal Medicine, IRCCS San Matteo Hospital FoundationUniversity of PaviaPaviaItaly
| | - Riccardo Inchingolo
- Pulmonary Medicine Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical SciencesFondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCSRomeItaly
- Department of Internal Medicine, IRCCS San Matteo Hospital FoundationUniversity of PaviaPaviaItaly
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16
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Jiang W, Zhao X, Gan T, Liu Y, Luo S, Zhu M, Chen S, Jiang Y, Wu M. Application of a Tele-Ultrasound Robot During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Feasibility Study. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2023; 42:595-601. [PMID: 35689526 PMCID: PMC9349638 DOI: 10.1002/jum.16041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the accuracy of ultrasonic diagnosis using the tele-ultrasound robot in Leishen Shan Hospital. METHOD Twenty-two patients with novel coronavirus pneumonia from Leishen Shan Hospital voluntarily participated in this study. Their thyroids, neck vessels, hepatobiliaries and kidneys were scanned by both a tele-ultrasound robot manufactured by Imabot Co., Ltd, Wuhan and conventional method. The ultrasound diagnosis of each patient was compared, and the ultrasound images obtained by the two methods were mixed together and double-blindly diagnosed by an experienced ultrasound radiologist. RESULTS There were 44 positive lesions in 110 sites of 22 patients. Of which the two methods, 40 positive lesions were detected by the robotic method with 4 lesions missed (2 small polyps of gallbladder, 1 small hemangioma of liver and 1 small cyst of kidney) and 1 lesion misdiagnosed (normal carotid artery was misdiagnosed as carotid atherosclerotic plaque); 44 positive lesions were detected by conventional method with 1 small cyst of the liver was missed. There was no statistically significant difference in the accuracy rate between the robotic method and the conventional method using the chi-square test of the four-grid data (P>.05). CONCLUSION The application of tele-ultrasound robot meets the standard of patient care during the pandemic. The method is feasible to provide adequate ultrasound information to diagnose common abdominal, vascular, superficial organ pathologies in patients with COVID-19 with acceptable accuracy compared with a conventional ultrasound scan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenli Jiang
- Department of Ultrasound, the First Medical CentreChinese PLA General HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Xia Zhao
- Department of UltrasoundZhongnan Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Tian Gan
- Department of UltrasoundZhongnan Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of UltrasoundZhongnan Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Shuilian Luo
- Department of UltrasoundZhongnan Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Meifang Zhu
- Department of UltrasoundZhongnan Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Sikai Chen
- Department of UltrasoundZhongnan Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Yu Jiang
- Department of UltrasoundZhongnan Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Meng Wu
- Department of UltrasoundZhongnan Hospital of Wuhan UniversityWuhanChina
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17
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Tawfik EA, Wijntjes J, Walker FO, Cartwright MS, van Alfen N. Short-term educational value of online neuromuscular ultrasound courses. Muscle Nerve 2023; 67:63-68. [PMID: 36354083 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS We have previously reported that online neuromuscular ultrasound courses are feasible and were found to be useful by most survey respondents. However, our previous report lacked objective assessment of the educational value of the courses. Therefore, we aimed in this study to evaluate the learning outcomes of online neuromuscular ultrasound courses. METHODS Each of the basic and advanced courses featured one pre- and two post-course online knowledge tests. The percentage of corrected answers and the participants' scores in the three tests were calculated and compared. RESULTS A total of 153 out of 277 course participants answered the course test. The mean percentage of correct answers were significantly higher in the second and first post-course tests compared to the pre-course test (Basic course test: 80.2 ± 14.8%, 75.5 ± 15.9%, 64.3 ± 19.1%, respectively; Advanced course test: 80.9 ± 20.1, 78.9 ± 15.2%, 69.5 ± 20.2%, respectively). The mean scores of the participants in the basic course test significantly improved in the first and second post-course tests (from 66.6% to 77.5% and from 67.2% to 80.2%, respectively) whereas those of the participants in the advanced course test significantly improved in the first post-course test only (from 76.3% to 85.4%). DISCUSSION This report demonstrates the capability of online neuromuscular ultrasound courses, particularly the basic-level courses, to enhance knowledge. This information can further help integrate virtual neuromuscular ultrasound teaching as a standard complementary educational format together with supervised in-person or remote hands-on training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman A Tawfik
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Juerd Wijntjes
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Francis O Walker
- Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, North, USA
| | | | - Nens van Alfen
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Kim D, Roth KR, Warren HR. Rapid Education Event: A Streamlined Approach to Ultrasound Guided Nerve Block Procedural Training. Cureus 2023; 15:e34080. [PMID: 36843803 PMCID: PMC9945813 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.34080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In the Emergency Medicine Residency setting, procedural ultrasound education often takes place at the bedside when the procedure becomes clinically necessary. As ultrasound technology and its applications continue to gain more importance, there is a greater need for effective and standardized educational models for teaching ultrasound-guided procedures. This pilot program aimed to demonstrate that residents and attending physicians can achieve procedural competence in fascia iliaca nerve block following a rapid and compact procedural education event. Our curriculum covered anatomy identification, procedural knowledge, and technical skills of probe manipulation. After completing our new curriculum, more than 90% of participants demonstrated adequate learning through the pre- and post-assessments and direct observation of procedural performance on a gel phantom model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Muacevic
- Department of Emergency and Hospital Medicine/USF Morsani College of Medicine, Lehigh Valley Health Network, Bethlehem, USA
| | - John R Adler
- Department of Emergency and Hospital Medicine/USF Morsani College of Medicine, Lehigh Valley Health Network, Bethlehem, USA
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Resop DM, Basrai Z, Boyd JS, Williams JP, Nathanson R, Mader MJ, Haro EK, Drum B, O'Brien E, Khosla R, Bales B, Wetherbee E, Sauthoff H, Schott CK, Soni NJ. Current use, training, and barriers in point-of-care ultrasound in emergency departments in 2020: A National Survey of VA hospitals. Am J Emerg Med 2023; 63:142-146. [PMID: 36182580 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2022.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dana M Resop
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; Emergency Department, William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Zahir Basrai
- Emergency Medicine, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA.
| | - Jeremy S Boyd
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA; VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System-Nashville, Department of Emergency Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Jason P Williams
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Medicine Service, Atlanta, GA, USA; Emory School of Medicine, Division of Hospital Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Robert Nathanson
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Medicine Service, San Antonio, TX, USA; University of Texas Health San Antonio, Division of Hospital Medicine, San Antonio, TX, USA.
| | - Michael J Mader
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Research Service, San Antonio, TX, USA.
| | - Elizabeth K Haro
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Medicine Service, San Antonio, TX, USA; University of Texas Health San Antonio, Division of Hospital Medicine, San Antonio, TX, USA.
| | - Brandy Drum
- Healthcare Analysis and Information Group, Department of Veterans Affairs, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
| | - Edward O'Brien
- Healthcare Analysis and Information Group, Department of Veterans Affairs, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
| | - Rahul Khosla
- Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA; Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Brian Bales
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Emergency Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA; VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System-Nashville, Department of Emergency Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Erin Wetherbee
- Pulmonary Section, Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Minneapolis, MN, USA; Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
| | - Harald Sauthoff
- Medicine Service, VA NY Harbor Healthcare System, New York, USA; Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, NY, New York, USA.
| | - Christopher K Schott
- VA Pittsburgh Health Care Systems, Critical Care Service, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; University of Pittsburgh, Departments of Critical Care Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Nilam J Soni
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Medicine Service, San Antonio, TX, USA; University of Texas Health San Antonio, Division of Hospital Medicine, San Antonio, TX, USA; University of Texas Health San Antonio, Division of Pulmonary Diseases & Critical Care Medicine, San Antonio, TX, USA.
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20
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Ward S, Palma J. Virtual Ultrasound Training in a Multinational Teaching Program. Mil Med 2022; 188:usac305. [PMID: 36226885 PMCID: PMC9619737 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usac305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Before the COVID-19 pandemic, a 1-week in-person Clinical Ultrasound Course was taught in African nations as part of a U.S. Department of State-funded program that supports and trains African peacekeepers serving with the United Nations and African Union. In order to maintain active engagement with host nations despite the travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, portions of the course were taught virtually in 2021 to providers in Ghana, Senegal, and Rwanda. An abbreviated course was delivered covering the Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma (FAST) trauma exam and vascular access. The goal of this study is to assess the effectiveness of the Clinical Ultrasound Course while taught in a virtual classroom. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-six participants enrolled in the program. Participants completed a pre-course survey before the training. Training consisted of a pre-recorded lecture followed by hands-on ultrasound instruction. After the training, participants completed a post-course survey. Eight participants were excluded from the study because they did not complete both surveys. Survey questions assessed the participants' comfort with ultrasound mechanics and the FAST exam. Participant responses were measured utilizing a visual analog scale. RESULTS Based on survey results, all participants gained a better understanding of the indications and limitations of the FAST exam from the virtual Clinical Ultrasound Course. All participants also felt more comfortable using ultrasound in clinical practice than they did before the course. Ghanaian and Senegalese participants showed greater improvement in all areas studied than Rwandan participants. This is likely due to the fact that the Rwandan hospital system had prior ultrasound training and a higher baseline understanding than their counterparts. The Rwandan hospital system had previously completed the in-person sessions of the Clinical Ultrasound Course and therefore had some institutional knowledge, while the Ghanaians and Senegalese took the course for the first time during this study. CONCLUSION Virtual delivery of the Clinical Ultrasound Course was successful. Participants felt more comfortable in all aspects of ultrasound taught during the course and indicated that they were more likely to use ultrasound in clinical practice. This demonstrates that virtual ultrasound teaching is a viable option for international educational programs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Ward
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, VA 23708, USA
| | - James Palma
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, VA 23708, USA
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Williams JP, Nathanson R, LoPresti CM, Mader MJ, Haro EK, Drum B, O'Brien E, Khosla R, Boyd JS, Bales B, Wetherbee E, Sauthoff H, Schott CK, Basrai Z, Resop D, Lucas BP, Soni NJ. Current use, training, and barriers in point-of-care ultrasound in hospital medicine: A national survey of VA hospitals. J Hosp Med 2022; 17:601-608. [PMID: 35844080 DOI: 10.1002/jhm.12911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can reduce procedural complications and improve the diagnostic accuracy of hospitalists. Currently, it is unknown how many practicing hospitalists use POCUS, which applications are used most often, and what barriers to POCUS use exist. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to characterize current POCUS use, training needs, and barriers to use among hospital medicine groups (HMGs). DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A prospective observational study of all Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers was conducted between August 2019 and March 2020 using a web-based survey sent to all chiefs of HMGs. These data were compared to a similar survey conducted in 2015. RESULT Chiefs from 117 HMGs were surveyed, with a 90% response rate. There was ongoing POCUS use in 64% of HMGs. From 2015 to 2020, procedural POCUS use decreased by 19%, but diagnostic POCUS use increased for cardiac (8%), pulmonary (7%), and abdominal (8%) applications. The most common barrier to POCUS use was lack of training (89%), and only 34% of HMGs had access to POCUS training. Access to ultrasound equipment was the least common barrier (57%). The proportion of HMGs with ≥1 ultrasound machine increased from 29% to 71% from 2015 to 2020. An average of 3.6 ultrasound devices per HMG was available, and 45% were handheld devices. CONCLUSION From 2015 to 2020, diagnostic POCUS use increased, while procedural use decreased among hospitalists in the VA system. Lack of POCUS training is currently the most common barrier to POCUS use among hospitalists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason P Williams
- Medical Education, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Medicine Service, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Robert Nathanson
- Department of Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Medicine Service, San Antonio, Texas, USA
- Division of General & Hospital Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Charles M LoPresti
- Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Michael J Mader
- Department of Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Research Service, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Elizabeth K Haro
- Department of Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Medicine Service, San Antonio, Texas, USA
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases & Critical Care Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Brandy Drum
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Healthcare Analysis and Information Group, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Edward O'Brien
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Healthcare Analysis and Information Group, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Rahul Khosla
- Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, George Washington University Medical Faculty Associates, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Washington Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Jeremy S Boyd
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System-Nashville, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Brian Bales
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System-Nashville, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Erin Wetherbee
- Pulmonary Section, Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Harald Sauthoff
- Medicine Service, VA NY Harbor Healthcare System, New York, USA
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Christopher K Schott
- Critical Care Service, VA Pittsburgh Health Care Systems, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Departments of Critical Care Medicine and Emergency Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Zahir Basrai
- Emergency Medicine, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Dana Resop
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Emergency Department, William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Brian P Lucas
- Medicine Service, White River Junction VA Medical Center, White River Junction, Vermont, USA
- Department of Medicine, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Nilam J Soni
- Department of Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Medicine Service, San Antonio, Texas, USA
- Division of General & Hospital Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases & Critical Care Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
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22
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Lufler RS, Davis ML, Afifi LM, Willson RF, Croft PE. Bringing anatomy to life: Evaluating a novel ultrasound curriculum in the anatomy laboratory. ANATOMICAL SCIENCES EDUCATION 2022; 15:609-619. [PMID: 34714592 DOI: 10.1002/ase.2148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
As point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) invades medical specialties, more students covet earlier ultrasound (US) training programs in medical school. Determining the optimal placement and format in the curriculum remains a challenge. This study uses student perceptions and confidence in interpreting and acquiring images to evaluate the effectiveness of an US curriculum and assesses their performance on US content. A unique US curriculum was incorporated into first-year clinical anatomy at Tufts University School of Medicine (TUSM). Students completed surveys evaluating changes in US confidence and perceptions. Mean ratings on pre- and post-surveys were compared using Mann-Whitney U tests. Performance on US examination questions was evaluated. Two independent evaluators coded narrative responses and NVivo software was used to identify common themes. Two hundred eleven students completed the US curriculum. Students reported higher post-curriculum mean confidence ratings on US comprehension, operation, image acquisition, artifact recognition, and normal image interpretation (P < 0.0001). US reinforced anatomy concepts and clinical correlates (9.56, ±0.97 SD; 9.60, ±1.05). Students disagreed with items stating learning US is too difficult (1.2, ±2.2) and that it interferes with learning anatomy (0.68, ±1.7). Students scored above passing on practical US knowledge questions, supporting survey data, and the relation to learning spatial relationships. Qualitative analysis identified seven major themes and additional subthemes. Limited integration of US breaks barriers in students' perceptions and confidence in performing POCUS. The TUSM US curriculum is a natural marriage of anatomy and POCUS applications, serving as a template for medical schools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca S Lufler
- Department of Medical Education, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Margaret L Davis
- Emergency Medicine Department, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Linda M Afifi
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Robert F Willson
- Department of Medical Education, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Peter E Croft
- Emergency Medicine Department, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine, USA
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23
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International medical electives during and after the COVID-19 pandemic - current state and future scenarios: a narrative review. Global Health 2022; 18:44. [PMID: 35459191 PMCID: PMC9026059 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-022-00838-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background International medical electives are an important and popular component of the academic curriculum in many medical schools and universities worldwide. The purpose of abroad electives is to provide medical students with an opportunity to gain a better understanding of education and healthcare in an international context. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, has substantially changed the international elective landscape. Travel restrictions, closures of international elective programs and the expansion of virtual methods for education caused a widespread disruption to abroad electives. A comprehensive analysis with regard to other consequences for abroad electives, however, has not been done before. Thus, we sought to a) summarize the current transformation of the international medical elective and b) to address potential challenges for post-pandemic international medical electives. Methods The methodology employed is a multidisciplinary narrative review of the published and grey literature on international electives during the last two years of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results Students worldwide had electives postponed or canceled. Apart from evident immediate pandemic-related consequences (such as the substantial decline in global electives and impaired elective research opportunities for educators), there are other several problems that have received little attention during the last two years. These include challenges in the elective application process, poorly-understood consequences for host institutions, and growing global (ethical) disparities that are likely to increase once elective programs will gradually re-open. There is ample evidence that the post-pandemic elective landscape will be characterized by increasing elective fees, and a more competitive seat-to-applicant ratio. Ethical problems for international electives arising from an unequal global vaccine distribution will pose an additional challenge to students and elective coordinators alike. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic transformed the international medical elective landscape in an unprecedented way, and future generations of medical students will face a series of additional challenges when applying for global medical electives.
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24
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Janjigian M, Dembitzer A, Srisarajivakul-Klein C, Mednick A, Hardower K, Cooke D, Zabar S, Sauthoff H. Design and comparison of a hybrid to a traditional in-person point-of-care ultrasound course. Ultrasound J 2022; 14:12. [PMID: 35278145 PMCID: PMC8917361 DOI: 10.1186/s13089-022-00261-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Traditional introductory point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) courses are resource intensive, typically requiring 2–3 days at a remote site, consisting of lectures and hands-on components. Social distancing requirements resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic led us to create a novel hybrid course curriculum consisting of virtual and in-person components. Methods Faculty, chief residents, fellows and advanced practice providers (APPs) in the Department of Medicine were invited to participate in the hybrid curriculum. The course structure included 4 modules of recorded lectures, quizzes, online image interpretation sessions, online case discussions, and hands-on sessions at the bedside of course participant’s patients. The components of the course were delivered over approximately 8 months. Those participants who completed a minimum of 3 modules over the year were invited for final assessments. Results from the hybrid curriculum cohort were compared to the year-end data from a prior traditional in-person cohort. Results Participant knowledge scores were not different between traditional (n = 19) and hybrid (n = 24) groups (81% and 84%, respectively, P = 0.9). There was no change in POCUS skills as measured by the hands-on test from both groups at end-of-course (76% and 76%, respectively, P = 0.93). Confidence ratings were similar across groups from 2.73 traditional to 3.0 hybrid (out of possible 4, P = 0.46). Participants rated the course highly, with an average overall rating of 4.6 out 5. Conclusions A hybrid virtual and in-person POCUS course was highly rated and as successful as a traditional course in improving learner knowledge, hands-on skill and confidence at 8 months after course initiation. These results support expanding virtual elements of POCUS educational curricula. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13089-022-00261-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Janjigian
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, NYC Health & Hospitals/Bellevue, Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, USA.
| | - Anne Dembitzer
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, NY Harbor Healthcare System, New York, USA
| | - Caroline Srisarajivakul-Klein
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, NYC Health & Hospitals/Bellevue, Bellevue Hospital Center, New York, USA
| | - Aron Mednick
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, USA
| | - Khemraj Hardower
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, USA
| | - Deborah Cooke
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, USA
| | - Sondra Zabar
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, USA
| | - Harald Sauthoff
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, NY Harbor Healthcare System, New York, USA
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25
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Chen YT, Chou R, Kohler M, Eng C, Borg-Stein J. In-person versus virtual musculoskeletal ultrasound education during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: A single-center study. THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF PHYSICAL AND REHABILITATION MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/jisprm.jisprm-000156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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26
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Aminu M, Phillips E, Kolanko C. The Role of Digital Competence in CME Uptake: A Short Communication. J Eur CME 2021; 11:2019436. [PMID: 34992950 PMCID: PMC8725721 DOI: 10.1080/21614083.2021.2019436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The digitisation of society has reached almost every facet of our daily lives. The COVID-19 pandemic has further showcased the role of information and communications technology (ICT) in society and so much so in continuing medical education (CME). This has provided the CME industry with remarkable opportunities to design better educational programmes and reach more audiences. However, for healthcare professionals to take full advantage of these developments, they need to be digitally competent, at least at a basic level. While digital competence influences CME uptake in the internet age, several factors, in turn, can influence digital competence. These factors come from both within and outside the influence of healthcare professionals and educators. In this article, we explore how digital competence influences CME uptake and recommend ways to improve digital competence among healthcare professionals.
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