Can virtual-reality simulation ensure transthoracic echocardiography skills before trainees examine patients?

Objectives: This study aimed to develop and gather the validity evidence for a standardised simulation-based skills test in transthoracic echocardiography and to establish a credible pass/fail score.

Methods: Experts developed a virtual-reality simulator test in cardiology, medical education and simulation-based education. Thirty-six physicians with different experiences in transthoracic echocardiography completed the test at Odense University Hospital, Denmark. The performances of novice, intermediate and experienced participants were compared using the Bonferroni post hoc test. Cronbach's alpha was used to determine the internal consistency reliability of the test. The consistency of performance was analysed using the intraclass correlation coefficient. A pass/fail score was established using the contrasting groups' standard-setting method.

Results: We developed a test with high consistent reliability (Alpha = .81), 95% CI [.69, .89]. In both cases, the performers' level was consistent, fitting others at the same level of experience (intraclass correlation r₍₃₅₎=.81, p<.001). A pass/fail score of 48/50 points was established based on the mean test score of novice and experienced physicians.

Conclusions: We developed a standardised virtual-reality simulation-based test of echocardiography skills with the ability to distinguish between participants with different levels of transthoracic echocardiography experience. This test could direct a mastery learning training program where trainees practise until they reach the pre-defined level and secure a higher level of competency to ensure quality and safety for patients.