Ultrasound simulation versus traditional ultrasound training for general practitioners
Continuing Education of General Practitioners in Clinical Ultrasound - Ultrasound Simulation or Traditional Ultrasound Training?
This study tests whether training with ultrasound phantoms and simulators helps general practitioners learn point-of-care ultrasound better than training on healthy volunteers.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Aalborg University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Aalborg) |
| Trial ID | NCT07127588 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
Twenty-four general practitioners will be randomized into two groups of 12 to receive either simulation-based or traditional volunteer-based ultrasound training. All participants complete e-learning followed by two in-person teaching seminars and supervised practice of five focused examinations (abdominal aortic aneurysm, gallstones, pleural effusion, hydronephrosis, and FAST). Skills will be measured after the course to compare post-course ultrasound proficiency between the two training methods. Training includes hands-on practice at participants' own clinics between course days to mirror real-world conditions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Postgraduate medical doctors specialized in general medicine/family medicine who have access to an ultrasound device and have not previously completed a basic point-of-care ultrasound course are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: GPs who already completed basic POCUS training, lack access to an ultrasound device during the study, or have conflicts of interest are unlikely to benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, simulation-based training could produce higher post-course ultrasound competence among GPs, improving diagnostic accuracy and patient care while reducing reliance on healthy volunteers.
How similar studies have performed: Previous educational research indicates simulation and phantom-based training can improve ultrasound skills, but randomized comparisons specifically in general practice settings remain limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * The participant must be a postgraduate medical doctor specialized in general medicine/family medicine (general practitioner). * The participant must have access to an ultrasound device during the study period. Exclusion Criteria: * General practitioners who have already participated in a basic point-of-care ultrasound education for general practitioners. * General practitioners with potential conflicts of interest. * Individuals with no signed informed consent to participate.
Where this trial is running
Aalborg
- NordSim — Aalborg, Denmark (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Julie J Strøm
- Email: jrjepsen@dcm.aau.dk
- Phone: 004520869389
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.