Advancement in Use of Point-of-care Ultrasound in Pediatric Emergency Medicine in Israel: A Survey Study.

BACKGROUND

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) adoption has increased at different rates in different regions. We measured the effect of POCUS training activities on self-confidence and on barriers limiting use among pediatric emergency physicians in Israel from 2019 to 2024.

METHODS

We surveyed physicians who were certified as of August 2024. Statistical analysis used SPSS20.

RESULTS

In 2019, 48% used POCUS daily and 30% several times weekly, versus 72% and 21% in 2024 (P = 0.01). On a Likert scale of 1-5, there was less agreement with statements that lack of training opportunities and lack of self-confidence in POCUS ability were impediments to use (4 vs. 2 and 4 vs. 3 respectively, P < 0.001), and that ultrasound machine availability was an impediment to use (2 vs. 1, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Didactic videoconferences, in-person training courses, and obligatory POCUS experience and knowledge for pediatric emergency medicine board certification have increased POCUS development in Israel.