Awareness and Practice of Ultrasound-Guided Procedures among Junior Doctors: A Cross-Sectional Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69980/ajpr.v28i5.698Keywords:
ultrasound-guided procedures, junior doctors, awareness, training, barriers, cross-sectional studyAbstract
Background: Ultrasound-guided (USG) procedures have revolutionized clinical practice by enhancing accuracy, improving patient safety, and reducing complication rates. Despite growing evidence supporting its utility, the extent of awareness and practice among junior doctors remains unclear in many healthcare settings.
Objective: To assess the level of awareness and practice of ultrasound-guided procedures among junior doctors in a tertiary care teaching hospital and to identify perceived barriers to their utilization.
Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 150 junior doctors (interns and residents). The tool assessed demographics, awareness, practice, and barriers to ultrasound use. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests (SPSS v25).
Results: Most participants (94%) had heard of ultrasound-guided procedures, and 78% recognized its role in improving safety. However, only 32% had received formal training, and just 25% reported independently performing central venous cannulation under ultrasound guidance. Familiarity with international guidelines was low (24%). Lack of training (54%), limited machine availability (38%), and inadequate supervision (28%) emerged as major barriers.
Conclusion: Junior doctors demonstrated high theoretical awareness but limited practical exposure to USG procedures. Expanding structured training, ensuring machine availability, and fostering mentorship are essential to bridge this knowledge–practice gap and enhance patient outcomes.
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