A valid and reliable assessment tool for remote simulation-based ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia

The purpose of this study was to establish construct and concurrent validity and interrater reliability of an assessment tool for ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia (UGRA) performance on a high-fidelity simulation model.

Twenty participants were evaluated using a Checklist and Global Rating Scale designed for assessing any UGRA block. The participants performed an ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block on both a patient and a simulator. Evaluations were completed in-person by an expert and remotely by a blinded expert using video recordings. Using previous number of blocks performed as an indication of expertise, participants were divided into Novice (n = 8) and Experienced (n = 12) groups. Construct validity was assessed through the tool's reliable on-site and remote discrimination of Novice and Experienced anesthetists. Concurrent validity was established by comparisons of patient versus simulator scoring. Finally, interrater reliability was determined by comparing the scores of on-site and off-site evaluators.

The Global Rating Scale was able to differentiate Novice from Experienced anesthetists both by on-site and remote assessment on a patient and simulation model. The Checklist was unable to discern the 2 groups on a simulation model remotely and was marginally significant with on-site scoring.

This is the first study to demonstrate the validity and reliability of a Global Rating Scale assessment tool for use in UGRA simulation training. Although the checklist may require further refinement, the Global Rating Scale can be used for remote and on-site assessment of UGRA skills.