Evaluation of a digitally enhanced cardiac auscultation learning method: a controlled study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Cardiology
• Diagnostic Skills

Background:

• Cardiac auscultation is vital, especially in resource-limited areas, but skills are declining due to ineffective teaching.
• Modern diagnostic tools are often inaccessible in these regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a digitally enhanced learning method on medical students' cardiac auscultation knowledge and skills.
• To compare a digital learning approach with traditional methods.

Main Methods:

• A controlled study with fourth-year medical students in two parallel arms (intervention and control).
• Intervention group received additional lectures, clinical internship, and digital audio listening sessions.
• Pre- and post-tests assessed knowledge (MCQs) and skills (heart sound recognition).

Main Results:

• The study aims to measure knowledge and skills progression as primary and secondary outcomes.
• Participant satisfaction with the learning method will also be assessed.
• Data analysis will be conducted per protocol.

Conclusions:

• This study could develop an improved cardiac auscultation learning method integrating digital technology.
• Positive outcomes may enhance cardiac auscultation skills among healthcare professionals globally, especially in developing countries.