Teaching vs learning: Impact of deliberate practice and formative feedback on developing point of care ultrasound skills

Abstract

Purpose The study investigators hypothesized that Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) training through bolus didactic and workshop experiences may be sufficient for trainees to learn the cognitive aspects, while an extended period of exposure with formative feedback is responsible for developing the psychomotor skills critical for POCUS. Methods The investigators studied trainees over the course of an academic year. They compared trainees' performance on written (cognitive) and observed image acquisition (psychomotor) exams at baseline and at each subsequent quarter, using a stepped‐wedge design. They performed linear regression analysis to determine which variables contributed to knowledge and psychomotor skill development. Results Twenty‐six trainees met the study requirements and participated in the POCUS curriculum. Participating in a POCUS rotation was consistently associated with an increase in psychomotor scores. There was no consistent variable to predict an increase in trainee's score on written knowledge assessments. Conclusions Extended exposure to POCUS over a 4‐week rotation with direct and indirect formative feedback can explain difference in scores on psychomotor skills assessments. Trainees scored similarly on the written assessment with or without a POCUS rotation. Training through didactic and workshop experiences may be sufficient to learn the cognitive aspects, but not psychomotor skills required for POCUS.

PAs and point-of-care ultrasound

“…Types of educational intervention and their effect Eleven studies described various types of educational interventions and their effect (Table 4). [30][31][32][33][34][35][36][37][38][39][40] Studies were predominantly observational or mixed methodology and were conducted in a range of settings, including conference, undergraduate education, simulation laboratory, and academic institutional settings. Interventions ranged from 20 minutes to 4 weeks in length and predominantly used traditional or asynchronous didactic and hands-on training methods.…”

Point-of-care ultrasound training for residents in anaesthesia and critical care: results of a national survey comparing residents and training program directors’ perspectives

“…Simulation was infrequent in Italian residency schools, similar to what was previously reported in the United States [ 24 ], although it has been shown to enhance knowledge level, dexterity and confidence [ 51 , 52 ]. Liberal practice should also be encouraged and structured since it is fundamental to improve technical skills and confidence [ 53 ].…”

Machines that save lives in the intensive care unit: the ultrasonography machine

“…[ 9 ]. Basic scanning technique may be achieved with hands on training at courses, but competency is achieved through longitudinal training [ 15 ]. Basic echocardiography should not become synonymous with substandard image quality; intensivists should strive to maintain high image quality standards with formative feedback and supervision [ 16 ].…”