Table 1 Educational methods in POCUS training
From: A road map for point-of-care ultrasound training in internal medicine residency
Educational method | Utility |
|---|---|
Didactic lectures | Effective for new learners to process the basics of ultrasound, knobology, introductions to specific applications. An interactive approach is helpful, with immediate demonstration of concepts on an ultrasound machine. Online didactics may be used to save instructor time |
Procedural task trainers | Individual procedure-oriented trainers such as central line, thoracentesis and paracentesis mannequins, as well as ultrasound-compatible gel-blocks for IV placement |
Ultrasound trainers | More costly, comprehensive ultrasound models manufactured by several companies capable of replicating the scanning experience, image acquisition and interpretation. Ultrasound trainers can be used to display idealized normal anatomy, or a variety of expandable pathologies |
Live models | Represent a good resource, especially for students immediately after initial didactics. These can be standardized patients or individual learners who are part of the course (if comfort level permits) and are usually used to achieve standard views with normal anatomy. Often rated highly by students |
Direct patient scanning | A powerful way for learners to solidify their knowledge. Usually positioned after learners acquire basic image acquisition and interpretation skills, it can be structured as a known or unknown assessment to increase challenge. Often very highly rated by students |
Individual portfolio creation | A method to allow continued, independent learning. The learner acquires a collection of saved exams, which is later reviewed and appraised by an instructor |