Development and evaluation of a systems-based point-of-care ultrasound curriculum for a master of science in athletic...

As an imaging modality, point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) holds substantial value to health professionals who are adequately trained in its use. The athletic training profession is an allied health profession with significant potential to adopt POCUS in training and practice. However, published research on POCUS curricula for graduate entry-level programs in athletic training is lacking. Furthermore, there are no published studies of learning outcomes from POCUS courses for graduate entry-level athletic training students.

We developed a POCUS curriculum tailored for a graduate athletic training program. Following updated Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education standards, we described POCUS evaluation of select organ systems in the abdomen and thorax, as well as the extended focused assessment with sonography in trauma (eFAST) protocol. Course efficacy was assessed with a prospective observational study using a convenience sample of entry-level graduate athletic training students enrolled in our elective course. All (n = 15) students were starting the second year in a Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) program. Pre-and post-course tests were administered to assess cognitive learning outcomes, and an imaging practical exam was developed to gauge students' psychomotor proficiency. In addition, students' experiences were evaluated with a post course survey in the following self-perceived domains: (1) confidence in their future education and clinical practice; (2) satisfaction with the course; and (3) confidence in their POCUS proficiency.

Students demonstrated significant learning in cognitive domains (pre-test average = 48%, post-test average = 73%, P < 0.001), displayed proficiency in congruence with our course objectives in a practical evaluation, reported satisfaction with a variety of course features, and gained confidence in POCUS skills. Notably, students were dissatisfied with the brevity of the course and displayed heterogeneous proficiency across applications.

Students in a professional MSAT program can develop meaningful knowledge and proficiency in the use of POCUS across organ systems following a brief elective. Additional training is needed to facilitate clinical implementation across the profession. Positive perceptions and self-confidence among students following POCUS training may help support POCUS adoption by athletic trainers.