Exploring Factors Influencing ECG Interpretation Proficiency of Medical Professionals

Introduction: The electrocardiogram (ECG) is a crucial diagnostic tool in medicine with concerns about its interpretation proficiency across various medical disciplines. Our study aimed to explore potential causes of these issues and identify areas requiring improvement.

Methods: A survey was conducted among medical professionals to understand their experiences with ECG interpretation and education.

Results: A total of 2515 participants from diverse medical backgrounds were surveyed. 1989 (79%) participants reported ECG interpretation as part of their practice. However, 45% expressed discomfort with independent interpretation. A significant 73% received less than 5 hours of ECG-specific education, with 45% reporting no education at all. Also, 87% reported limited or no expert supervision. Nearly all medical professionals (2461, 98%) expressed a desire for more ECG education. These findings were consistent across all groups and did not vary between primary care physicians, cardiology FIT, resident physicians, medical students, APPs, nurses, physicians, and non-physicians.

Conclusions: This study reveals substantial deficiencies in ECG interpretation training, supervision, and confidence among medical professionals, despite a strong interest in increased ECG education.

Reference: Kashou AH, Noseworthy PA, Beckman TJ, Anavekar NS, Angstman KB, Cullen MW, Sandefur BJ, Friedman PA, Shapiro BP, Wiley BW, Kates AM, Braisted A, Huneycutt D, Baranchuk A, Beard JW, Kerwin S, Young B, Rowlandson I, Knohl SJ, O'Brien K, May AM. Exploring Factors Influencing ECG Interpretation Proficiency of Medical Professionals. Curr Probl Cardiol. 2023 Jun 13;48(10):101865. doi: 10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2023.101865. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37321283.