Evaluation of competence in ultrasound-guided procedures—a generic assessment tool developed through the Delphi method

Objectives: To develop a generic and objective tool for assessing competence in percutaneous ultrasound-guided procedures. Methods: Interventional ultrasound experts from the Nordic countries were invited to participate in a three-round Delphi process. A steering committee was formed to manage the process. In round 1, the experts were asked to suggest all aspects to consider when assessing competence in US-guided procedures. Suggestions were analyzed and condensed into assessment items. In round 2, the expert panel rated these items on a 1–5 scale and suggested new items. Items with a mean rating of ≤ 3.5 were excluded. In round 3, the expert panel rated the list items and suggested changes to the items. Results: Twenty-five experts were invited, and response rates in the three rounds were 68% (17 out of 25), 100% (17 out of 17), and 100% (17 out of 17). The three-round Delphi process resulted in a 12-item assessment tool, using a five-point rating scale. The final assessment tool evaluates pre-procedural planning, US technique, procedural technique, patient safety, communication, and teamwork. Conclusions: Expert consensus was achieved on a generic tool for assessment of competence in percutaneous ultrasound-guided procedures—the Interventional Ultrasound Skills Evaluation (IUSE). This is the initial step in ensuring a valid and reliable method for assessment of interventional US skill. Key Points: • Through a Delphi process, expert consensus was achieved on the content of an assessment tool for percutaneous ultrasound-guided procedures—the Interventional Ultrasound Skills Evaluation (IUSE) tool. • The IUSE tool is comprehensive and covers pre-procedural planning, US technique, procedural technique, patient safety, communication, and teamwork. • This is an important step in ensuring valid and reliable assessment of interventional US skills