Publication Date

5-2021

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Abstract

Background: Adequate echocardiographic (echo) education is integral to successful cardiology training. Online education is proven to be effective in other specialties, but pediatric echo training data are lacking. Our aim was to design and assess the role of a novel online module-based curriculum to enhance pediatric cardiology fellows’ echo education.

Methods: Four interactive modules, focused on principles and interpretation of a normal echo, were delivered to fellows. Content included high quality 2D and 3D echo clips (Fig 1A) as well as interactive quizzes (Fig 1B) and could be accessed from a phone, tablet, or computer. All fellows completed pre- and post-tests, validated by independent expert imagers, and surveys.

Results: 100% of fellows (n=7) participated in the pilot study. Test scores improved after completing the modules, and most fellows maintained a higher score at 4-weeks, suggesting good knowledge retention (Fig 1C). Self-assessed confidence in echo knowledge and interpretation, as assessed on a numeric scale, also improved (Fig 1D).

Conclusion: Online microteaching modules can provide a valuable adjunct to traditional echo education in cardiology fellowships. Our digital, phone-accessible curriculum was well received by fellows and was associated with an objective and subjective improvement in their understanding and interpretation of a normal echo. Further expansion of such modules will be beneficial in the evolving era of virtual education in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic

Disciplines

Cardiology | Medical Education

Notes

Presented at American College of Cardiology’s 70th Annual Scientific Session, May 15-17, 2021, in Atlanta, Georgia.

Online Echocardiography Modules for Pediatric Cardiology Fellows

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