Implementation of pulmonary ultrasound training for critical care advanced practice providers.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The use of pulmonary ultrasound (US) in the critical care setting has been increasing over the past 2 decades. The use of advanced practice providers (APPs) in the critical care setting is also increasing. Limited data exist regarding the clinical and educational impact of a formal pulmonary US training course for APPs working in critical care settings.

METHODS

A preimplementation and postimplementation comparative design focused on the development and implementation of a formal pulmonary US course for novice critical care APPs.

CONCLUSIONS

Eleven APPs underwent formal pulmonary US training. There was a significant increase in pulmonary US knowledge after the course, with pretest median of 13 and posttest median of 22 (p < .001; maximum score = 23). Presurvey and postsurvey comparison showed overall increase in skill and clinical use of pulmonary US. After the course, participating APPs reported a greater frequency of clinical decision-making based on US examination as measured by presurvey and postsurvey results.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Implementation of a formal pulmonary US course for critical care APPs improved pulmonary US knowledge, skill, and utilization, and impacted clinical decision-making and should be a highly recommended addition to the practice setting.