An Evaluation of Competency-Based Assessment for Ultrasound Training Using SonoSim LiveScan®

Abstract

While ultrasound is an imaging modality commonly utilized within the field of urology, there are relatively few educational or competency assessment measures designed to train ultrasound novices. A study by the University of Texas Health evaluated the ultrasound knowledge and skills of a cohort of 20 urology residents using SonoSim LiveScan, a low-fidelity ultrasound simulator that integrates real-patient sonographic images to test medical decision making.

The residents watched a brief lesson on the fundamentals of ultrasound use, and subsequently were given 30 minutes to practice using the SonoSim LiveScan equipment. Following the initial round of instruction, residents were evaluated by instructors on their basic ultrasound skills, ability to image pathology, and identify relevant anatomical structures. Additionally, after finishing the scanning session test, residents completed a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire to retrospectively assess their own performance and the usability of SonoSim LiveScan as a training tool.

The results of the study revealed that after training on SonoSim LiveScan, the majority of residents were able to complete all of the competency-based assessment urologic ultrasound tasks except for adrenal mass identification. Moreover, the residents reported the usability of SonoSim LiveScan to be good (4.4/5), the cases simulated real-life scenarios well (4/5), the pathology was helpful for ultrasound training (4.4/5), and overall, would recommend the incorporation of SonoSim into ultrasound training for residents (3.8/5).

To read the article on urology ultrasound training, visit the Indian Journal of Urology.

Rowley KJ, Wheeler KM, Pruthi DK, et al. Development and implementation of competency-based assessment for urological ultrasound training using SonoSim: A preliminary evaluation. Indian J Urol 2020;36:270-5.