Development and implementation of a comprehensive postgraduate ultrasound curriculum for residents in obstetrics and gynecology: a feasibility study

Abstract

Background In obstetric and gynecological practice, ultrasound is the essential diagnostic tool. Nevertheless, few clinics have standardized and structured training curricula for young obstetricians in the field of obstetric and gynecological ultrasound. Since ultrasound is best learned hands-on in small supervised groups, we developed and implemented a comprehensive ultrasound curriculum for all postgraduate residents of our department using a peer-teaching concept. Methods We used Kern‘s six-step model of curricular development comprising (1) problem identification and general needs assessment, (2) needs assessment of the targeted learners, (3) goals and objectives, (4) educational strategies, (5) implementation, and (6) evaluation and feedback. Results Assistant physicians in the 1st and 2nd year of training received a theoretical and practical ultrasound basic course (six modules) in addition to their obligatory clinic rotations. The six main topics were prioritized according to service relevance and included the main features according to DEGUM, EBCOG and ISUOG. The units focused on a three-level training based on the AMEE levels: theoretical knowledge, well-founded theoretical knowledge and basic practical skills under guidance and self-employment of practical skills. Conclusion Structured and standardized sonographic training allows young gynecology and obstetrics residents to conceptually grasp and practically implement topic-related themes. Furthermore, the course concept demonstrates the high inter-rater agreement among DEGUM-certified examiners. More research is needed to analyze the learning outcomes for residents and the improvement of the patient's outcome by establishing such an ultrasound curriculum.

Controlled prospective study on ultrasound simulation training in fetal echocardiography: FESIM II

“…An alternative didactic method to teach ultrasound skills are peer-assisted teaching concepts, which have been demonstrated to be effective [ 28 , 29 ]. Recently, Recker et al developed a peer-teaching-based comprehensive structured training curriculum for residents learning gynecologic ultrasound [ 30 ]. The development and implementation of such training programs for fetal echocardiography might be at least similarly or more effective as SIM-UT.…”

Shaping the future of obstetric/gynecological ultrasound training

“…The goal is to familiarize students with the broad applications of the tool. There is an emerging trend advocating for the early integration of US training within medical schools [1][2][3][4] , as supported by the positive outcomes from longitudinal US programs at institutions like The Ohio State University 5 and The University of South Carolina 6 . Such early exposure can foster rapid skill development and increased proficiency.…”

Kern's six‐step approach allows for meaningful implementation of an orthognathic surgery training course

“…This approach has been widely adopted in medical training, encompassing radiology, 5 surgery, [6][7][8] obstetrics and gynecology, 9 and emergency medicine. 10,11 One of the key features described was the evaluation of the issues and problems faced by students.…”