Development and Implementation of an Ultrasound Wireless Technology Educational Program for Nursing Students: A Quality Improvement Project

Abstract

Background: Training on the use of ultrasounds (US) is offered to nurses after their degree in specialization courses or in a work setting. When considering the positive impact of US on patient quality of care, this training should be offered to undergraduate nursing students. The aim of this quality improvement project was to assess the quality of nursing curricula by evaluating the effects of an ultrasound technology educational program (USTep) on nursing students’ knowledge, self-confidence, satisfaction and perceived usefulness of the training for the acquisition of US skills. Methods: 118 nursing students completed a 3-h USTep, that combined a theoretical introduction with simulation training. Data were collected before and after the USTep, using a survey with closed and open-ended questions. Results: After the educational program, a net increase was seen in knowledge about US (pre-test 48.1% vs. post-test 93.4%, p < 0.00001) and in student self-confidence (pre-test m = 1.7 ± 0.9 vs. post-test m = 3.9 ± 0.8, p < 0.001). According to the participants, this training benefited the students (during their training and for future employment opportunities), the patients, and the profession. Lastly, 97% of the sample expressed satisfaction with the training experience. Conclusions: This quality improvement project shows that a 3-h USTep improved undergraduate nursing students’ knowledge, self-confidence, and satisfaction.