[Reliability study on the interpretation of electrocardiograms by general practitioners and trainees]
F J Alonso Moreno1, R Orueta Sánchez1, A Segura Fragoso2
1Centro de Salud Sillería, Toledo, España.
Semergen
|March 4, 2017
Summary
General practitioners and trainees show moderate reliability in interpreting electrocardiograms (ECG) compared to cardiologists. Experience in emergency departments and general practice correlates with higher diagnostic skill.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Education
Background:
- Accurate electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation is crucial for diagnosing cardiac conditions.
- Variability in ECG interpretation skills among non-specialists may impact patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the reliability of ECG interpretation by general practitioners (GPs) and physicians in training.
- To compare the diagnostic accuracy of GPs and trainees against that of cardiologists.
Main Methods:
- An observational study involving GPs, Family and Community Medicine trainees, and early-career cardiologists.
- Participants reviewed 13 anonymized ECGs with consensus diagnoses provided by expert cardiologists.
Main Results:
- Interpretation accuracy varied significantly, with atrial fibrillation (82.3%) correctly identified more often than junctional rhythm (26.5%).
- Resident cardiologists, GPs, medical tutors, and those with emergency department experience demonstrated higher diagnostic skills.
- Working in an emergency department and being a practicing GP were associated with improved diagnostic skill.
Conclusions:
- GPs and physicians in training exhibit a moderate level of reliability in ECG interpretation when compared to cardiologists.
- Further training and experience, particularly in emergency settings, may enhance diagnostic accuracy for non-specialists.
Keywords:
Atención PrimariaClinical skillsCompetencia clínicaDiagnosisDiagnósticoElectrocardiografíaElectrocardiographyPrimary CareMore Related Videos
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