Table 1.
Comparison of knowledge test scores and fulfillment of course objectives by the in-person vs. tele-ultrasound POCUS courses
| In-person (n = 88) | Tele-ultrasound (n = 52) | p-value | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knowledge test scores | |||
| Pre-course (%) | |||
| Mean | 71 | 78 | 0.001 |
| Median [IQR] | 73 [60–83] | 83 [71–85] | |
| Range | 34–98 | 49–95 | |
| Post-course (%) | |||
| Mean | 87 | 89 | 0.069 |
| Median [IQR] | 88 [83–91] | 90 [85–93] | |
| Range | 49–98 | 54–100 | |
| Differences (%) | |||
| Mean | 16 | 11 | 0.017 |
| Median [IQR] | 12 [7–22] | 7 [2–18] | |
| Range | (− 7)–51 | (− 12)–39 | |
| p-value | < 0.0001 | < 0.0001 | |
| Fulfillment of course objectivesa | |||
| Fundamental principles of ultrasound technology and basic operation of a portable ultrasound machine | 4.7 | 4.7 | 0.81 |
| Techniques to perform focused diagnostic ultrasound examinations at the bedside, including imaging of the heart, lungs, abdomen, and lower extremity veins | 4.8 | 4.8 | 0.53 |
| Techniques to guide performance of bedside procedures with ultrasound guidance, including central venous catheterization, thoracentesis, paracentesis, and lumbar puncture | 4.5 | 4.4 | 0.32 |
| Indications, basic protocols, and limitations of bedside ultrasound imaging | 4.7 | 4.6 | 0.65 |
| Practice interpretation of normal and abnormal ultrasound images | 4.7 | 4.7 | 0.81 |
| Mentored scanning with experienced faculty to learn hands-on imaging techniques | 4.7 | 4.7 | 0.70 |
aMean scores per 5-point scale (1 = not at all; 2 = minimal; 3 = neutral; 4 = good; 5 = excellent) with p-values calculated for proportion giving an excellent rating