How I Teach the Estimation of Right Ventricular Systolic Pressure Using Point-of-Care Ultrasound

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Medicine
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Medical Education

Background:

• Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) offers rapid bedside diagnostics but lacks detailed hemodynamic information.
• Critical care echocardiography (CCE), a specialized POCUS application, uses Doppler for hemodynamic assessment in critically ill patients.
• Estimating right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) is crucial for managing critically ill patients but challenging to teach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce an effective methodology for teaching RVSP estimation using CCE in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
• To enhance learners' ability to interpret hemodynamic data crucial for critical care.
• To improve the practical application of CCE skills in managing critically ill patients.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a "How I Teach" format to present a structured curriculum for RVSP estimation.
• Integrating hands-on ultrasound training sessions for practical skill development.
• Employing e-learning strategies to reinforce knowledge and optimize retention.

Main Results:

• The described methodology aims to optimize knowledge retention and accurate interpretation of CCE findings.
• The training focuses on practical application of RVSP estimation for improved patient management.
• Successful implementation is expected to enhance the competency of critical care learners in hemodynamic assessment.

Conclusions:

• Effective teaching of CCE, including RVSP estimation, is essential for modern critical care.
• A combined approach of hands-on training and e-learning can successfully impart complex hemodynamic assessment skills.
• This educational strategy supports the critical need for skilled CCE practitioners in the ICU.