Ultrasound in primary care: Consensus recommendations on its applications and training. Results of a 3-round Delphi study

Autor: Laura Conangla-Ferrin, Pere Guirado-Vila, Mònica Solanes-Cabús, David Teixidó-Gimeno, Lorena Díez-García, Jesus Pujol-Salud, Lidia Evangelista-Robleda, Josefa Bertran-Culla, Yolanda Ortega-Vila, Vicenç Canal-Casals, Antoni Sisó-Almirall
Jazyk: angličtina
Rok vydání: 2022
Předmět:
Zdroj: European Journal of General Practice, Vol 28, Iss 1, Pp 253-259 (2022)
Druh dokumentu: article
ISSN: 13814788
1751-1402
1381-4788
DOI: 10.1080/13814788.2022.2150163
Popis: AbstractBackground The introduction of portable and pocket ultrasound scanners has potentiated the use of ultrasound in primary care, whose many applications have been studied, analyzed and collected in the literature. However, its use is heterogeneous in Europe and there is a lack of guidelines on the necessary training and skills.Objectives To identify the fundamental applications and indications of ultrasound for family physicians, the necessary knowledge and skills, and the definition of a framework of academic and pragmatic training for the development of these competencies.Methods A modified 3-round Delphi study was carried out in Catalonia, with the participation of 65 family physicians experts in ultrasound. The study was carried out over six months (from September 2020 to February 2021). The indications of ultrasound for family physicians were agreed (the > = 75th percentile was considered) and prioritised, as was the necessary training plan.Results The ultrasound applications in primary care were classified into seven main categories. For each application, the main indications (according to reason for consultation) in primary care were specified. A progressive training plan was developed, characterised by five levels of competence: A (principles of ultrasound and management of ultrasound scanners); B (basic normal ultrasound anatomy); C (advanced normal ultrasound anatomy); D (pathologic ultrasound, description of pathological images and diagnostic orientation); E (practical skills under conditions of routine clinical practice).Conclusion Training family physicians in ultrasound may consider seven main applications and indications. The proposed training plan establishes five different levels of competencies until skill in real clinical practice is achieved.
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