Electrocardiogram interpretation competency among paramedic students

Abstract

Background: Electrocardiography is an essential emergency tool used in the pre-hospital setting. However, no studies have yet assessed electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation among emergency medical services (EMS) students in Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to determine the ECG interpretation competency of paramedic students. Methodology: Cross-sectional, single-center study, a pre-validated, self-administered, two-part questionnaire first created by Coll-Badell et al was used to assess the ECG interpretation competency of paramedic students at Prince Sultan College for Emergency Medical Services (PSCEMS) in King Saud University. Participant data were collected and analyzed to identify factors associated with improved competency. Results: All students of PSCEMS were included, and 137 of 248 paramedic students completed the questionnaire (55% response rate); 88 students (64.2%) scored >7.5 points, indicating competency in (ECG) interpretation. Factors such as grade point average (GPA) (>3.5) and enrollment in cardiology and advanced cardiac life support courses were found to be significantly associated with competency (p<0.001). Conclusion: The majority of paramedic students were found to be competent in ECG interpretation. GPA and enrollment in cardiology and advanced cardiac life support courses were significantly associated with improved competency.