PGY-1 Ultrasound Rotation
Rotation Description
This 4-week rotation is designed to provide Emergency Medicine interns with a foundational understanding of Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS). The rotation emphasizes image acquisition, interpretation, and the integration of ultrasound into clinical decision-making.
Learner Responsibility
This course requires active participation. Learners are expected to be self-starters who work through asynchronous content independently and proactively come into the department on their own time to hone their scanning skills, in addition to scheduled instruction.
Course Goals & Learning Objectives
By the end of this rotation, the intern will be able to:
- Physics & Mechanics: Describe the basic mechanics of ultrasound, including piezoelectric effect, frequency, and resolution.
- Knobology & Optimization: Demonstrate proficiency in image acquisition and optimization using gain, depth, and focus controls.
- Probe Selection: Select the appropriate transducer (phased array, curvilinear, linear) for specific clinical indications and body regions.
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Core Applications: Acquire and interpret standard views for the following core studies:
- Cardiac: Basic focused cardiac ultrasound (identification of pericardial effusion and global contractility).
- Thoracic: Evaluation for pneumothorax (lung sliding) and pleural effusion.
- Aorta: Screening for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA).
- Renal: Evaluation for hydronephrosis.
- Biliary: Evaluation of the gallbladder for cholelithiasis and signs of cholecystitis.
Course Requirements
To successfully complete this rotation, residents must fulfill the following:
1. Asynchronous Education
- Core Ultrasound Fundamentals: Residents must complete the Core Ultrasound "Fundamentals" course online.
- Self-Directed Learning: Residents are expected to review educational materials and practice scanning independently throughout the month.
2. Hands-On Instruction
- Weekly Director Scanning: Mandatory weekly scanning shifts with the Course Director. These sessions will focus on advanced technique, troubleshooting, and clinical application.
- Fellow Meetings: Regular scheduled meetings with the Ultrasound Fellow(s) for image review, QA, and bedside teaching.
3. Independent Scanning
- Residents must perform independent scanning shifts to meet the required number of exams (150 for this month, 300 for residency) and to build muscle memory.
Evaluation & Grading
The Final Practicum
At the end of the rotation, all residents must pass a hands-on practicum administered directly by the Course Director.
- The practicum will assess the resident’s ability to acquire standard views, interpret pathology, and demonstrate proper machine knobology.
- Successful completion of this practicum is mandatory to pass the rotation.
Grading Scale: Pass / Fail
- Pass: Completion of all requirements, including the online course, attendance at all weekly meetings, and passing the final practicum.
- Fail: Failure to meet attendance requirements, failure to complete asynchronous work, or inability to demonstrate competency during the final practicum.
Contact Information
Syllabus coming soon.