Impact of simulator-based training on acquisition of transthoracic echocardiography skills in medical students

Abstract

Introduction: Due to the expanding role of ultrasound as a diagnostic tool in modern medicine, medical schools rapidly include ultrasound training in their curriculum. The objective of this study was to compare simulator-based training along with classical teaching, using human models, to impart focused transthoracic echocardiography examination. Subject and Methods: A total of 22 medical students, with no former transthoracic echocardiography training, undertook a 90-min e-learning module, dealing with focused echocardiography and important echocardiographic pathologies. Subsequently, they had to complete a multiple-choice-questioner, followed by a 120-min practical training session either on the Heartworks™, (Cardiff, UK) and the CAE Vimedix ® , (Québec, Canada) simulator ( n = 10) or on a live human model ( n = 12). Finally, both groups had to complete a post-test consisting of ten video-based multiple-choice-questions and a time-based, focused echocardiography examination on another human model. Two blinded expert observers scored each acquired loop which recorded 2 s of each standard view. Statistical analysis was performed with SPPS 24 (SPSS™ 24, IBM, USA) using the Mann-Whitney-Test to compare both groups. Results: Analysis of measurable outcome skills showed no significant difference between transthoracic echocardiography training on human models and high-fidelity simulators for undergraduate medical students. Conclusions: Both teaching methods are effective and lead to the intended level of knowledge and skills.

Nephrologist-Led Simulation-Based Focused Cardiac Ultrasound Workshop for Medical Students: Insights and Implications

“…Of note, the simulators we used are relatively less expensive compared to the ones used in prior similar studies. 12 , 13 …”

Ultrasonography in undergraduate medical education: a comprehensive review and the education program implemented at Jichi Medical University

“…When training medical students in cardiac ultrasound, Cawthorn et al [ 34 ] demonstrated that self-directed simulation training using the same simulator alone was not as effective as practical small-group instructions under the supervision of experienced sonographers. In contrast, Hempel et al [ 98 ] showed that supervised cardiac ultrasound training using a simulator was not inferior to supervised training using human models in allowing medical students to acquire appropriate knowledge and skills. A randomized study also demonstrated that using a simulator to facilitate the acquisition of skills in cardiac ultrasound in addition to conventional educational approaches was feasible and useful, with improved examination scores, shortened examination times, and improved student satisfaction [ 99 ].…”

The effect of simulation of sectional human anatomy using ultrasound on students’ learning outcomes and satisfaction in echocardiography education: a pilot randomized controlled trial

“…Numerous studies have confirmed the effectiveness of high-fidelity simulation in teaching echocardiography, as it enhances self-confidence, knowledge and skills, and improves organizational practice among a variety of learners in different clinical settings [14,15]. For example, some studies found no significant differences between echocardiography training on human models and high-fidelity simulation for undergraduate medical students [16,17]. Another study reported that simulation-based training, compared to video-based training, significantly improved the performance of medical students following a 90-minute theoretical lecture [18].…”