A presurvey and postsurvey of a web- and simulation-based course of ultrasound-guided nerve blocks for pediatric emergency medicine.

Objectives: Fracture pain in the pediatric emergency department generally is treated with systemic analgesia using opioids. Fracture pain can alternatively be controlled with ultrasound (U/S)-guided nerve blocks for which only minimal training is available to pediatric emergency medicine physicians. This study evaluated the effects of a Web- and half-day simulation-based U/S course. Outcome measures were physician comfort level with and intention to use U/S-guided nerve blocks in clinical practice.

Methods: We conducted a presurvey and postsurvey study targeting pediatric emergency medicine physicians. Participants completed a Web-based tutorial and a half-day simulation program. Participants completed survey questionnaires to document their comfort level and intention to use U/S-guided nerve blocks. Questionnaires were completed before, immediately after, and 1 month after course.

Results: Eleven physicians participated in the study. The participants' comfort with and intention to use U/S-guided ulnar and femoral nerve blocks increased immediately after course, but neither increase was sustained 1 month after course. Immediately following the course, participants reported that the course addressed their learning needs (91%) and that they would consider advanced training (91%). One month after course, participants reported that they would partake in refresher courses (82%), particularly if offered once per year (64%).

Conclusions: This study suggests that Web- and simulation-based learning can increase comfort and intention to use U/S-guided nerve blocks and the need for follow-on training. Participants reported that their learning needs were met but that they would need annual refresher courses.