Comparison of learning outcomes for teaching focused cardiac ultrasound to physicians: A supervised human model course versus an eLearning guided self- directed simulator course

Purpose: Focused cardiac ultrasound (FCU) training in critical care is restricted by availability of instructors. Supervised training may be substituted by self-directed learning with an ultrasound simulator guided by automated electronic learning, enabling scalability.Materials and Methods: We prospectively compared learning outcomes in novice critical care physicians after completion of a supervised one-and-a-half-day workshop model with a self-guided course utilizing a simulator over four weeks. Both groups had identical pre-workshop on-line learning (20h). Image quality scores were compared using FCU performed on humans without pathology. Interpretive knowledge was compared using 20MCQ tests.Results: Of 161 eligible, 145 participants consented. Total Image quality scores were higher in the Simulator group (95.2% vs. 66.0%, P P P > .1). Including purchase of the simulator and ultrasound equipment, the simulator course required lower direct costs (AUD$796 vs. $1724 per participant) and instructor time (0.5 vs.1.5 days) but similar participant time (2.8 vs. 3.0 days).Conclusions: Self-directed learning with ultrasound simulators may be a scalable alternative to conventional supervised teaching with human models