Despite the Long Learning Curve for Ultrasound, How Beneficial Is A 5-Day Basic Obstetric Ultrasound Training for Foetal Biometry

Abstract

Abstract

Objectives

To study the impact of a 5-day structured practical training in obstetric ultrasound scan on competence of ultrasound-naïve medical practitioners in fetal biometry.

Methods

Assessment was by a purpose-designed objective competency scoring proforma consisting of four domains before and after a 5-day structured hands-on training in basic obstetric ultrasound. Scores were compared using paired t-test. The overall composite score was 16 and a score of 12 was considered as the minimum for competence

Results

There were 23 participants consisting of 10 Medical Officers, 10 Obstetricians and 3 Resident Doctors. The pre-training evaluation showed that virtually no participant achieved a competence score in any of the parameters. Following training, greater than 50% of participants had competence score in at least two of the four basic fetal biometric parameters. The post-training competency scores were significantly higher than the pre-course scores. Also, the variability of the post-course scores were lower except for the FL. The pre-training competency score was a significant predictor of the final score.

Conclusion

A 5-day structured basic ultrasound scan workshop can impart competence on majority of ultrasound naïve medical practitioners in at least 2 basic fetal biometry domains while leading to improvement in all four biometry parameters.