Point-of-Care Ultrasound Education in Advanced Practice Nursing: A Scoping Review of Educational Strategies.
TL;DR
POCUS education is emerging within APRN programs but lacks standardized competency assessment and longitudinal evaluation, demonstrating the need for structured curricula and further research.
Abstract
Background
Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is becoming increasingly integrated into clinical practice and health professions education. Among advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), POCUS supports bedside assessment, diagnostic evaluation, and procedural guidance. However, the structure, implementation, and outcomes of POCUS training within APRN education remain inconsistently described.
Purpose
This review examined how POCUS educational strategies have been implemented for APRN learners and the outcomes for these learners.
Methods
A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. MEDLINE, CINAHL Complete, Embase, Web of Science, and ERIC were searched without date limits and restricted to English-language, peer-reviewed studies. Reference lists were screened by 2 reviewers. Data were charted using a standardized extraction tool and synthesized descriptively in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review framework.
Results
Of the 661 records identified, 21 studies met the inclusion criteria. Educational approaches commonly combined didactic instruction, hands-on scanning, and simulation-based learning. Outcomes included improvements in confidence, knowledge, and technical skills. Few studies used objective competency assessments or evaluated longitudinal outcomes.
Conclusions
POCUS education is emerging within APRN programs but lacks standardized competency assessment and longitudinal evaluation, demonstrating the need for structured curricula and further research.