Bridging the Gap: Structured Simulation-Based Pulmonary Ultrasound Training for Internal Medicine Residents

BACKGROUND: Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is an essential tool in the practice of internal medicine (IM) and is increasingly integrated into clinical practice for immediate bedside diagnosis and management decisions. However, there is a gap in the training of IM specialists in the effective utilization of POCUS. METHODS: This study evaluates the impact of a theoretical-practical pulmonary POCUS course on first-year IM residents compared with third-year residents without formal training, using a quasi-experimental, nonequivalent control group study. Implemented at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, the course comprised online theoretical classes and practical sessions using a portable ultrasound device. Performance was assessed via theoretical and practical tests before and after the course. RESULTS: Results demonstrated significant improvement in the skills and knowledge of first-year residents following the course, with overall performance increasing from 43% to 86%. In contrast, third-year residents exhibited similar performance to first-year residents before course assessments, emphasizing the need for structured POCUS training in residency curricula. In addition, residents reported improved self-perceived skills and a greater appreciation for the utility of lung ultrasound (LUS) after training. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the effectiveness of structured POCUS training in enhancing residents' skills and knowledge and provides a potential approach for incorporating POCUS teaching into the IM residency program curriculum.