Neonatal performed echocardiography course: Can we face it?

Abstract

Objective To evaluate students’ qualification after a six-month basic course of Neonatal Performed Echocardiography (NPEcho), adjusted by the motivational profile. Study design Prospective cohort of 16 neonatologists/neonatal fellows who underwent the basic NPEcho course in 2019 (18 h face-to-face theoretical classes; 36 h hands-on training) and 12 in 2020 (18 h online theoretical classes; 36 h hands-on training). Students’ qualification was defined as ≥70% in post-test, video test, and practical evaluation in neonates. Academic Motivation Scale was applied. Results Scores in 2019 vs. 2020 were: pre-test −32% vs. 40% ( p = 0.029), final theoretical score −78% vs. 69% ( p = 0.007), and practical evaluation −88% vs. 65% ( p = 0.003), resulting in 68.8% in 2019 vs. 33.3% in 2020 qualified students. Students’ motivational profile were similar in 2019 and 2020. Conclusion The NPEcho was successful in qualifying students with face-to-face theoretical classes, but the online format was inadequate to achieve the learning goals.

Impact of Targeted Neonatal Echocardiography on Patent Ductus Arteriosus Management in a Canadian Tertiary Care Neonatal Unit: A Retrospective Cohort Study

“…The difference in echocardiographic information in the two periods was related to the use of a standardized imaging protocol used for TNE, which aimed to collect detailed information on the size of PDA as well as the volume of shunt based on the European Special Interest Group's publication on assessment of PDA. [18][19][20] Such comprehensive imaging protocols have evolved based on the recognition that ductal dimension alone has limitations in predicting hemodynamically significant PDA. There is still an ongoing debate on which parameter either singly or in combination has the best ability to delineate treatment needs.…”