Education and training models for point-of-care ultrasound in perioperative medicine: a narrative review
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By
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Zhonghang Xu
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Huiqiao Lian
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Xuli Ren
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July 10, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Training and Educational Approaches for Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Perioperative Medicine: A Comprehensive Review
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) |
| Key Mechanisms | Real-time assessment of cardiovascular function, pulmonary pathology, gastric content, airway anatomy, vascular access, regional anesthesia, and perioperative complications. |
| Target Population | Anesthesiologists, critical care clinicians, pain physicians, emergency clinicians, surgeons, and ultrasound educators. |
| Care Setting | Perioperative medicine |
Key Highlights
- POCUS education in anesthesiology is heterogeneous with variable curricular scope.
- Simulation-based education is essential for teaching POCUS effectively.
- Assessment strategies for POCUS must include multiple evaluation tools.
- Key research priorities include multicenter validation of competency thresholds and studies linking training to clinical outcomes.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Utilize POCUS for focused cardiac, lung, gastric, and trauma-oriented examinations.
Management
- Implement structured curricula for POCUS training in residency programs.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Combine image-quality rubrics, interpretation tests, and longitudinal workplace-based feedback for assessment.
Risks
- Barriers to effective POCUS training include lack of trained faculty, protected training time, and equipment access.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients in perioperative settings, including those who are hemodynamically unstable or have complex conditions.
Simulation is a bridge between theoretical knowledge and competent bedside practice.
Clinical Best Practices
- Progress from cognitive preparation to clinical integration in POCUS education.
- Use simulation-based training to enhance learner preparedness for high-stakes environments.
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