Hands-On Time in Simulation-Based Ultrasound Training - A Dose-Related Response Study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Emergency Medicine
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) is a valuable diagnostic tool.
• POCUS performance is user-dependent, highlighting the need for effective training.
• Current POCUS training methods vary, with unclear optimal hands-on practice duration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of varying durations of hands-on practice on POCUS learning outcomes.
• To assess the relationship between hands-on time and performance in a Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) course.

Main Methods:

• Junior doctors with limited POCUS experience were allocated to groups receiving 40, 60, or 90 minutes of hands-on FAST training.
• Participants completed a validated POCUS performance test post-training.
• Performance was evaluated based on test scores and completion time.

Main Results:

• Increased hands-on practice time correlated with higher mean test scores (p<0.001).
• The 90-minute group demonstrated significantly faster test completion times compared to shorter durations (p=0.003).
• Substantial inter-individual variation in performance was observed across all groups.

Conclusions:

• Hands-on practice duration positively influences POCUS skill acquisition and efficiency.
• The significant inter-individual variability in performance makes defining a universal 'optimal' training time impractical.
• Mastery learning, allowing trainees to practice until proficiency is achieved, is recommended for POCUS education.