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Updated: Feb 11, 2026
Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma FAST Exam: Image Acquisition
Published on: September 22, 2023
Standardised assessment of competence in Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma
L Russell1,2,3, M L Østergaard1,4, M B Nielsen1,4
1Copenhagen Academy for Medical Education and Simulation, University of Copenhagen and The Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Purpose:
The aim of this study was to develop and gather validity evidence for a standardised test of competence in Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) and to define the appropriate cut-off point in simulation-based learning of the FAST protocol.
Methods:
A 20-item simulation-based test for assessing competence in FAST was created. The test was administered to thirteen novices and twelve radiologists experienced in abdominal ultrasound diagnostics. The Contrasting Groups' method was used to establish a credible passing score.
Results:
The internal consistency was high (Cronbach's α = 0.90) and the test had good discriminatory ability (P < .001). The mean score was 16.9 (95% CI: 15.5-18.3) in the experienced group and 8.0 (95% CI: 5.8-10.2) in the novice group, corresponding to 85% and 40% of the total score, respectively. A pass/fail standard of 14 points was established using the Contrasting Groups' method.
Conclusions:
The FAST simulation-based test provided valid assessment of competence in FAST. The FAST test could be used to guide training and ensure basic competence of physicians using FAST.
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