Natalia Mangos*; Zahra Ridha

Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, ON, Canada

*Corresponding Author:  Natalia Mangos (email: mangosn@mcmaster.ca)

Download article PDF – POCUS Journal 2026;11(1):14

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24908/pocusj.v11i01.20482

Conference Abstract – Séguin Canadian POCUS Education Conference 2025

Structured point of care ultrasound (POCUS) education remains limited across Canadian undergraduate medical programs, despite its growing clinical relevance. At our institution, where no formal POCUS curriculum exists, 84% of surveyed students (n = 71) rated POCUS education as “lacking” or “severely lacking,” with many seeking costly, external training. To address this gap, we designed InSiGHT-US—the Interdisciplinary and Simulation-Guided Hands-on Training in Ultrasound curriculum—an evidence-informed, two-phase program introducing foundational skills and reinforcing them through spaced, simulation-based application.

Phase 1, POCUS Day, launches the initiative with an interdisciplinary, full-day, multi-station workshop providing intensive, hands-on training in core applications, including diagnostic scanning (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST), cardiac, lung, obstetric) and ultrasound-guided procedures (vascular access, thoracentesis, paracentesis, blocks). This phase leverages evidence-based pedagogical methods—small group learning, active learning, and near-peer teaching—delivered by interdisciplinary resident instructors to maximize skill acquisition and resource efficiency [1–4]. Several months later, Phase 2, a Hybrid Simulation Session, allows learners to apply their training to realistic case scenarios. Students perform real-time scanning on standardized patients while preceptors integrate digital ultrasound clips displaying corresponding pathological findings. This innovative format bridges image acquisition with diagnostic reasoning, enabling students to practice technical skills, interpret both normal and abnormal findings, and use these insights to guide management. Integrating simulation-based learning and spaced reinforcement enhances procedural retention and knowledge consolidation [5].

InSiGHT-US is designed for high feasibility and cost efficiency. By leveraging existing institutional infrastructure (ultrasound equipment, models, and protected teaching time for residents), expenses are largely limited to standardized patients and preceptor honoraria (~$6000 annually for a class of 200; <$30 per student). The program will be piloted with voluntary participation in Year 1 (estimated cost: $200), followed by full implementation in Year 2 upon successful evaluation. The evaluation employs a rigorous pre- and post-intervention design [6–8]. It will use primary metrics of objective knowledge gain (multiple choice question assessments) and self-reported competence (Likert surveys) to ensure data-driven quality improvement and scalability. This model is highly adaptable; it can be tailored for institutions with varying resources by adjusting scanning stations, substituting virtual cases, or tailoring content to local needs. InSiGHT-US offers a robust, sustainable, and scalable model for embedding essential POCUS education into undergraduate training nationwide.

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