Delivering ultrasound training in non-acute settings: measuring impact
By Morag Stout, NHS Education Scotland
Objective
To determine the impact a National Ultrasound Training Programme (NUTP) has on workforce and service delivery by qualitative assessment from learners, mentors, managers and patients.
Methods
Learners attended a new National Ultrasound Training Programme. Whilst the academic component of their training was unchanged, they attended a National Waiting Times Hospital for five, 1-week blocks of training over the academic year. Learners were taught knobology, practical scanning and reporting. Feedback was obtained from learners at the start and end of the programme via a survey. Mentors were interviewed halfway through the academic year and surveyed at the end of the year. Service managers were also surveyed to capture any potential impact on acute sites. All patients were invited to complete a patient satisfaction survey.
Results
Eleven learners from six health boards attended NUTP. Feedback was globally outstanding with praise for training in a relaxed, supportive, unhurried environment. All felt more confident after attending and felt their training had accelerated as a result. Mentors were content with the programme. They believed the quality of training was excellent and it took pressure off their sites. All will be keen to use the programme again. One mentor commented that more information about the programme would have been useful prior to commencement. Managers had a similar response to mentors and some commented that not having to convert some lists to training lists impacted on patient turnaround and eased pressure on mentors. To date, over 4000 scans have been performed at NUTP. Patient feedback has been tremendous, with over 2000 responses reporting 100% patient satisfaction.
Conclusions
Results demonstrate NUTP has been extremely well received by learners, mentors, managers and patients. The training has accelerated and enhanced learning whilst easing pressure on acute sites and reducing waiting times.