IMPROVING ECG LEARNING AND COMPETENCE AMONG MEDICAL AND POSTGRADUATE TRAINEES: SCOPING REVIEW OF AVAILABLE EVIDENCE

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Cardiology
• Diagnostic Tools

Background:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) is a critical non-invasive tool for cardiac disease evaluation.
• Cardiovascular diseases are a leading global cause of mortality.
• Proficiency in ECG interpretation is essential for medical doctors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify effective approaches for improving ECG learning and competence.
• To evaluate methods for medical and postgraduate trainees' ECG skill development.

Main Methods:

• Scoping review adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
• Searched PubMed, SciELO, and AJOL for studies from 2000-2022.
• Included articles on improving ECG learning and competence in trainees; data screened by three reviewers.

Main Results:

• 25 articles were identified, primarily from Europe and the US.
• Diverse ECG learning modalities were found, including traditional lectures, e-learning, blended methods, and computer simulations.
• No single method proved superior, but combined approaches showed better results.

Conclusions:

• A blended approach combining conventional and electronic learning methods is superior to standalone methods.
• Educators should select and implement the most effective strategies to boost trainee ECG competence.