Sonography Simulators: Use and Opportunities in CAAHEP-Accredited Programs

SONOSIM SUMMARY:
In this survey-based study, program directors of CAAHEP-accredited sonography programs were sent questionnaires to assess whether programs used simulation and, if so, to collect usage data and opinions on simulation as an educational tool.

Of the programs surveyed, 75% reported using simulation in some capacity. Of that group, 89% of program directors considered simulation useful and 81% said that their students expressed positive feedback on their experiences using simulation. Additionally, the majority of program directors reported that they actively noticed student improvements in transducer manipulation and in identifying normal anatomy after simulation activities. The top three most used simulation products identified were Blue Phantom, MedSim, and SonoSim, the latter of which fulfils the requirements of the ARDMS Accepted Continuing Education Evaluation Model System (AACEEMS) Checklist and is also recognized by ARDMS as a sponsor of CME credit.

In the study’s conclusion, the authors discussed that sonography simulation allows students to increase their knowledge, skills, and confidence in a way that may produce better outcomes than traditional didactic education.

Yosefa J. Pessin, MS, RDMS, RDCS, RVT and Jason Tang-Simmons, BS, RDMS et al. Sonography Simulators: Use and Opportunities in CAAHEP-Accredited Programs. J of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. 2018 Vol. 34(6) 435-444.

Abstract

Concern for patient safety and increased demands on health professionals have resulted in challenges for the clinical training of sonography students. The purpose of this study was to examine simulation use in Commission on Accreditation of
Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)–accredited sonography programs. A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted. Program directors were sent a survey that addressed the use of simulation and the perception of simulation’s educational
value. Of the 230 sonography programs identified, 137 responded, for a response rate of 60%. Of the respondents, 75% indicated they used simulation and 89% reported that it was a good teaching tool. The programs indicated that 81% recorded a
positive student experience using simulation. Simulation was rated most useful for improved anatomic identification (55%) and transducer manipulation (64%). Simulation is commonly used for educational training in CAAHEP-accredited sonography
programs and is perceived as a positive tool to enhance education of students. More research is needed to establish best use and educational practice.

To read the article, visit the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

SonoSim Keywords: Ultrasound Education, Simulation Center, CAAHEP