DOI: 10.12688/mep.21238.3 ISSN: 2312-7996

Implementation of formal focused cardiac ultrasound training for obstetric patients in anesthesiology residency: resident survey results

Claire Narang, Pamela Sarue, Reine Zbeidy
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Background Focused cardiac ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool in the management of hemodynamic instability, particularly in obstetric patients. Despite its relevance, cardiac ultrasound training tailored to obstetric anesthesia is rarely incorporated into anesthesiology residency education. Methods We implemented a structured focused cardiac ultrasound curriculum for anesthesiology residents during their obstetric anesthesia rotation at a tertiary academic center. The curriculum included a didactic session on focused cardiac ultrasound principles and pathologies relevant to obstetric patients, followed by hands-on training with a minimum of five supervised focused cardiac ultrasound exams. At the end of the rotation, residents completed a 10-item survey assessing changes in confidence, clinical application, anatomical knowledge, diagnostic ability, bedside behavior, and patient rapport. Statistical analyses were performed using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Results All 25 residents completed the post-curriculum survey (100% response rate). Confidence in performing FCU significantly increased (P < 0.001), with 72% reporting high confidence post-training compared to 4% pre-training. Residents reported strong agreement that the curriculum improved their ability to manage hemodynamic instability, identify cardiac anatomy, and make key diagnoses such as myocardial dysfunction and volume depletion. Additionally, 96% reported spending more time at the bedside, and 96% agreed FCU improved patient rapport. Conclusions Implementation of a brief structured focused cardiac ultrasound curriculum during the obstetric anesthesia rotation significantly improved resident confidence, perceived competence, and perceived clinical utility. These findings support integrating focused, context-specific ultrasound education into anesthesiology residency programs.

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