Austere Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Evaluation: A Protocoled Approach - S2

Lab Description: This four-hour lab is designed for tactical medical providers, both civilian and military, working in forward and austere environments, and teaches ultrasound evaluation of musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries and ultrasound guided procedures. The lab includes five scanning stations: shoulder evaluation, hand/wrist evaluation, ankle/foot evaluation, upper extremity nerve block, and lower extremity nerve block. Each of the five stations will accommodate three pairs of learners to emphasize low instructor-to-student ratios and hands-on experience that promotes mastery and creates a foundation for future learning. This lab does not include formal lecture. The MSK evaluation taught can be rehearsed in training, stand the test of high stress environments, and provide a common language for teleconsultation.

The lab accommodates 30 attendees who will pair up and receive a laminated booklet describing the ultrasound protocol being taught at each station. This booklet has been updated to include the latest research on the protocols taught. Each of the five stations will have an instructor. The supplies at each stations include: three tables, three ultrasound systems, gel, towels, and additional miscellaneous supplies necessary for the procedures being taught. The ultrasound systems will be supplied by in-kind donations from manufacturers and will include the latest portable models on the market. This lab has been updated to include training on these latest model ultrasound systems. Attendee battle buddy pairs will be assigned a station where faculty will instruct the attendees and perform a demonstration in a 6-1 student-to-instructor ratio. After this rapid-but-thorough instruction period, attendees will perform scans on their teammates in order to maximize hands-on ultrasound learning. Each station will have a set time of 45 minutes and students will rotate at the end of that time, thus completing all five stations in 4 hours.