Integrating Obstetric Point-of-Care-Ultrasonography (POCUS) Simulation Curriculum [ID: 1363619

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) is increasingly used in medicine and is widely integrated into training. While obstetric (OB) ultrasound (US) is prevalent, its formal use and curriculum is often overlooked in POCUS training. METHODS: We performed a prospective comparative study of medical students who underwent formal obstetrics POCUS training and simulation. Students participated in a pre- and post-knowledge assessment of basic (presentation, placentation, fluid) and advanced (biometry and basic anatomy) knowledge. Scores were compared via Wilcoxon signed-ranks test. In addition to formal didactics, students participated in hands-on simulation training. The simulation provided one-on-one biometry training with a high-fidelity CIRS model 065-20 fetal model. Participants were evaluated on their ability to perform a complete fetal biometry. RESULTS: There were 58 participants in formal POCUS simulation training. Prior to training, only 29.7% were comfortable with a basic OB US and 8.1% were comfortable with performing biometry. Afterwards, 83.8% and 78.4% were comfortable performing basic and biometry US. Students had significantly higher basic OB US knowledge comparing before (Mdn=50.0) to after training (Mdn=83.3) (Z=5.27, P<.01). Similarly, there was a significant increase in advanced OB US knowledge comparing before (Mdn=56.3) to after (Mdn=100.0) (Z=4.99, P<.01). All participants were able to complete biometry measurements on the CIRS model. 91.9% of participants recommended this training to others. CONCLUSION: Obstetric ultrasound provides invaluable opportunity for learners to gain POCUS skills. Formal training and simulation significantly improves learning knowledge, confidence, and practical OB POCUS skills that can be used during clinical care.