The feasibility of self-directed POCUS training in Physician Assistant education

Abstract

The increasing use of Point of Care Ultrasonography (POCUS) in medicine and healthcare prompted this pilot study, which aims to gain insight into the feasibility of online, self-directed POCUS training in the Physician Assistant (PA) curriculum. A mixed-method approach was used, gathering and analyzing data obtained from two cohorts of students in their didactic phase of training. Students completed a baseline survey, followed by the completion of several self-directed POCUS training modules, after which a post-survey was obtained. Seventy-six percent of the students had never used POCUS before. At the completion of the training, students demonstrated an increased level of confidence and comfort level using POCUS. The self-directed, self-paced, online format was not very favorable among the students. The recommendations for modifications, to incorporate live hands-on instruction were well received. It is important for PA programs to evaluate all aspects of a proposed POCUS training, including students’ perception, for a more meaningful learning experience.