Predictors of ECG Interpretation Proficiency in Healthcare Professionals

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Education
• Health Professions

Background:

• Accurate electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation is crucial for patient care.
• Significant variability exists in ECG interpretation skills among healthcare professionals.
• Identifying factors influencing ECG interpretation proficiency is essential for targeted training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify predictors of ECG interpretation proficiency.
• To analyze both nonmodifiable and modifiable factors affecting performance on 12-lead ECGs.
• To develop Comprehensive and Actionable Models for improving ECG interpretation skills.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of survey data and ECG interpretation test scores from the EDUCATE Trial (1206 participants).
• Evaluation of nonmodifiable factors (physician status, experience, patient care impact) and modifiable factors (interpretation volume, training hours, supervision).
• Bivariate and multivariate analyses to establish independent associations with test scores.

Main Results:

• Higher weekly ECG interpretation volume, physician status, and increased training hours were independently associated with higher test scores in the Comprehensive Model.
• In the Actionable Model, weekly interpretation volume and training hours showed independent positive associations with test scores.
• These models explained 18.7% (Comprehensive) and 12.3% (Actionable) of the variance in ECG interpretation test scores.

Conclusions:

• Key predictors of ECG interpretation proficiency include physician status, weekly interpretation volume, and training hours.
• Increasing weekly ECG interpretation volume and dedicated training hours are actionable strategies to enhance proficiency.
• These findings provide evidence-based recommendations for improving ECG interpretation skills across diverse healthcare professionals.