A novel training program for enhancing paramedics' electrocardiogram interpretation skills: pre-post-evaluation

Early intervention is critical for improving outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS); thus, reducing prehospital duration is essential. Accordingly, 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) training is vital for paramedics treating patients with chest pain. However, few studies have reported on such training programs. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a newly developed 12-lead ECG training program.

The novel 12-lead ECG training course consisted of six 30-min classroom lectures and practical exercises using eight case scenarios of patients with chest pain. It was conducted for 58 paramedics in Nagasaki Prefecture. Participants completed a 20-question ECG test and a 10-point scale questionnaire before and after the training to assess the course's impact.

The median number of correct answers on the ECG test significantly improved from 12.5 to 15 after the training (p < 0.01). Questionnaire results revealed that anxiety regarding 12-lead ECGs significantly declined from 8.5 to 6 points (p < 0.01), whereas confidence significantly increased from 3 to 6 points (p < 0.01). The ability to predict ischemic regions using 12-lead ECG increased from 5 to 7 points (p < 0.01), and accurate communication of ECG findings to receiving hospitals significantly improved from 5 to 6 points (p < 0.01). All participants reported that this training program would benefit their future fieldwork.

Paramedics gained confidence and knowledge through the newly developed 12-lead ECG training program. Continued implementation of this course may help reduce prehospital duration and improve outcomes in patients with ACS in the study region.