Basic ECG Interpretation Skill Competencies for Trainee Echsonographers in Nigeria—A Proposed Curriculum
Stanley Ibe, and Jerome Njoku
Abstract
Background
Electrical disturbances impact echocardiographic parameters in several disease states of the heart. Research shows that basic knowledge of ECG is an essential prerequisite in the successful learning and practice of Electrocardiography.
Objective
To highlight the importance of basic ECG knowledge in the study and practice of Echocardiography and to suggest the necessary content of the needed curriculum of study for interpretative ECG skills for trainee echocardiographers in Nigeria.
Method
In this critical review, we searched online literature to identify ECG interpretation competencies relevant to trainee/practicing echocardiographers. Information was retrieved from PubMed Central, SPIE Digital Library, ResearchGate, and Medline using relevant MeSH terms and phrases.
Results
The learning objectives and course outlines are hereby defined and enumerated. Basic ECG interpretation competency for echosonographers is defined in perspective, and the use of Wigger's diagram to identify common readings that may constitute potential risks to stress echo procedures is highlighted.
Conclusion
A clinical echocardiographer must be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of ECG tracings. Basic ECG training is not only essential for echo reporting but can also equip a practicing echosonographer with sufficient knowledge to ascertain when stress echo is contraindicated in the subject, especially in the absence of a supervising cardiologist.
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