Impact of Ultrasound Training in Italian Medical and Surgery Degree Courses: A Student Survey

Ultrasound plays a crucial role in clinical practice across various medical specialties, offering non-invasive, rapid, cost-effective, and straightforward examination methods. Its potential as a teaching tool for medical students has garnered attention from universities and specialized institutions. This study aims to evaluate the impact of an ultrasound course on students in the fourth, fifth, and sixth years of medical school, focusing on changes in their satisfaction, preparation, and overall competence. The research involved students participating in six ultrasound training sessions between 2017 and 2019. Five courses were conducted during an Italian Society of Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (SIUMB) congress, with one additional session as part of an elective didactic activity at Chieti University. To assess the course’s impact, students completed questionnaires before and after the training, with a focus on motivation, knowledge acquisition, and skill development. A theoretical test was also administered at the end of the course to measure learning outcomes. The results revealed that 81% of students provided correct responses on the learning questionnaire, with a strong motivation to continue studying ultrasound, even from the early stages of the medical course. Students expressed high interest in ultrasound training and supported its integration into the medical curriculum, even prior to the hands-on training. While students positively assessed the course’s impact on both knowledge and skills, they showed a stronger inclination toward acquiring theoretical knowledge. The study concludes that incorporating ultrasound training into medical education is beneficial, as it enhances both student motivation and competence. A hands-on component in ultrasound training is vital for effective skill acquisition.