Handheld Focused Cardiac Ultrasound Training in Internal Medicine Curriculum

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Cardiology
• Point-of-Care Ultrasound

Background:

• Focused Cardiac Ultrasound (FoCUS) is increasingly recognized for its diagnostic utility.
• Integrating novel ultrasound technologies into medical training is crucial for developing essential clinical skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate medical students' perceptions of using handheld FoCUS devices within an internal medicine curriculum.
• To identify key factors influencing the effectiveness of FoCUS training and learning outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional pilot survey was administered to 145 fourth-year medical students during their internal medicine rotation.
• Students utilized handheld FoCUS devices for bedside echocardiography.
• A questionnaire assessed perceptions of training, usefulness, skill development, and curriculum integration.

Main Results:

• 89.6% of students used handheld FoCUS devices, reporting high utility for bedside learning, understanding cardiac physiology, and enhancing echocardiographic skills.
• Higher usage frequency correlated with greater perceived learning efficacy.
• Training quality and practical demonstrations were significant predictors of educational success.

Conclusions:

• Handheld FoCUS integration offers substantial educational benefits for medical students in internal medicine.
• High-quality training and hands-on demonstrations are critical for maximizing learning outcomes.
• There is strong support for incorporating FoCUS systematically into the medical curriculum.