Skill acquisition through task-specific ultrasound training for peripheral cannulation
Abstract:
Background: Ultrasound (US)-guided peripheral intravenous access is a core procedural competency. However, formal training opportunities for medical students are often limited by short clinical rotations. This study evaluated the feasibility and short-term outcomes of a brief, skill-focused training curriculum in enabling the medical rotating trainees to successfully perform cannulation using US guidance.
Methods: In this pilot study, 22 clerks and 8 postgraduate year (PGY) residents participated in a 25-min task-specific training program consisting of an instructional video, live demonstration, and supervised hands-on practice using the Blue phantom US training model and the handheld US device (Vscan air). This curriculum exclusively emphasized the out-of-plane approach with dynamic needle tip positioning method, the use of large-gauge needles, and activation of the on-screen midline to target the vessel center while maintaining a stable probe position. Self-confidence and perceptions on the use of US guidance were assessed using pre- and post-training questionnaires on a 10-point ordinal scale. Technical competence was evaluated using a post-training practical assessment.
Results: After the training, median self-confidence level increased from 5 to 8, and the willingness to try US-guided cannulation before calling for help increased from 7.5 to 10 (both P < 0.001). All participants successfully completed US-guided cannulation in the simulation model, while PGY residents spent less time than clerks (68.5 vs. 133 s, P = 0.011).
Conclusions: A goal-directed US training curriculum using handheld US devices facilitates immediate skill acquisition and improves short-term confidence in novice learners within a limited training timeframe.
Reference:
Lin XN, Lu CW, Lin TY, Chou SF, Chang YY. Rapid skill acquisition through task-specific ultrasound training for peripheral cannulation in medical students. BMC Med Educ. 2026 Jul 23;26(1):1673. doi: 10.1186/s12909-026-09935-9. PMID: 42894200; PMCID: PMC13678868.