Implementation of a Longitudinal Ultrasound Training Program for Senior Emergency Medicine Residents: Impact on Scan Volume and Accuracy

Abstract

Background

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a critical skill in emergency medicine, yet training methods and assessment vary widely across residency programs. Skill degradation following initial training remains a persistent challenge.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of a longitudinal ultrasound curriculum implemented during the third year of residency (R3) on scan volume and competency.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a single academic emergency medicine residency program. Residents from six graduating classes were analyzed, comparing ultrasound examination volume and quality between those exposed to the longitudinal curriculum (intervention group) and those trained under the prior model (control group). The intervention included 2–8 faculty-supervised scanning shifts during the R3 year.

Results

A total of 84 residents performed 33,278 scans during the 6-year study period. Intervention group residents completed significantly more POCUS exams during their R3 year (mean 156.6 vs. 95.8; p < 0.01). Examination quality and diagnostic accuracy remained high, with no significant difference in advanced scan use.

Conclusion

A structured longitudinal ultrasound curriculum during senior residency meaningfully increases scan volume without compromising examination accuracy, supporting its adoption as a feasible strategy to reinforce POCUS competence.