Evaluation of a Perceptual Learning Module on Spinal Ultrasound Among Residents.

Evaluation of the Impact of a Perceptual Learning Module (PLM) on the Sonographic Identification of Spinal Structures by Novice Anesthesiology Residents. A Randomized Controlled Study

This medical education research project aims to evaluate the impact of a directed perceptual learning module (PLM) on spinal sonoanatomy. Following a demographic questionnaire, participants will be exposed to a tutorial explaining the necessary theoretical foundations for the PLM as well as the functioning of the PLM interface. A pre-test involving selecting the best image from a video sequence depicting spinal sonoanatomy will be administered to all participants. Participants will then be randomized into two groups and exposed to video sequences in the same manner as during the pre-test, with immediate feedback in the intervention group and no feedback in the control group. The video sequences presented will be the same between the two groups. Finally, a post-test will be administered immediately and remotely after exposure to the PLM. The time window corresponding to the best image will be predefined by an expert and compared to the resident's value. The difference in feedback exposure between the two groups will not be revealed to limit biases.

Inclusion Criteria (participants) :

• To be a first, second, third, or fourth-year resident in the anesthesiology program at the Université de Montréal.
• Not having experience in spinal ultrasound (defined as not having performed more than 5 spinal ultrasounds, whether accompanied or not).
• To be familiar with ultrasound.
• Consenting to participate in the study.

Inclusion Criteria (experts) :

- Having used spinal ultrasound in clinical practice or taught it within the last year.

Exclusion Criteria (participants) :

• Refusal to consent
• Not meeting the inclusion criteria.