Specialized critical care ultrasound training in critical care medicine education: a prospective single-center observational study with pre-post evaluations

Abstract Background The widespread use of critical care ultrasound (CCUS) for the management of patients in intensive care units (ICUs) requires effective training. The effectiveness of long-term, specialized CCUS training courses is unclear. This study describes a simulation-based, 6-month CCUS training program and evaluates its efficacy. Methods Seven consecutive CCUS courses, totaling 164 participants, were studied. The 6-month CCUS training comprised didactic lectures, pathological image interpretation, hands-on modules with stimulators/live models, and clinical CCUS use, including performing CCUS on needed patients and case analysis. Echocardiography and pulmonary, renal, vascular and craniocerebral ultrasound were performed. Satisfaction, theoretical/operational performance, comprehensive ultrasound application in clinical practice, and the influence of ultrasound training on clinical outcomes were assessed pre- and post-training by the Kirkpatrick Level 4 Model. Results More than 90% of the trainees reported “agree” or “strongly agree” to all survey questions. After ultrasound training, all the trainees significantly improved their theoretical examination, abnormal image interpretation and operational skills (all P < 0.05). The trainees' practical ultrasound application ability significantly improved (case assessment: 76 (72, 84) vs. 48 (38, 55); case analysis score: 21 (17, 26) vs. 11 (8, 15); image interpretation: 16 (13, 18) vs. 4 (2,7); all P < 0.05). Of 956 CCUSs, 415 yielded new diagnoses, 374 confirmed previous diagnoses, and treatment changes were made, impacting clinical decision-making by 82.53%. Conclusions Learners demonstrated significant improvements in the theoretical knowledge and practical skills of CCUS. In addition, they demonstrated clinical application ability, as evidenced by their high case analysis ability. This 6-month course is an effective method for training critical care clinicians in the skills requisite and clinical application of CCUS.