Introduction Point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) has become increasingly popular and as such there are challenges in training and promoting best clinical practice. Hence, the aim of this thesis was to enhance the training and practice of PoCUS, via two initiatives: improving the training and practice of PoCUS through the development of a ultrasound logbook mobile-phone application (APP), and improving the practice of PoCUS through the development of a clinical practice guideline (CPG). Methods For the first initiative, a literature review was undertaken to explore the role of logbooks. The development of a taxonomy, which described its organisation, hierarchy and function of a novel PoCUS logbook APP. This LogMyScan APP was created using cross-platform development software adopting agile methods. A feasibility study of the LogMyScan APP, incorporating the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) theory, was then conducted. For the second initiative, a literature review was undertaken to explore the role of CPGs. A systematic review of PoCUS CPGs was undertaken. This was followed with the development of a European PoCUS CPG. Results There was a paucity of studies evaluating logbook APPs for PoCUS. A taxonomy for an innovative logbook APP was described. The study evaluating the acceptability of the LogMyScan APP included 49 participants. The APPs usability scored well in Likert responses (mostly agree and strongly agree), and for desirability of existing and proposed features (mostly desirable or strongly desirable). Three themes (presentation and style, content and features, and stability and function) were derived during the inductive analysis of free text comments, and deductive analysis of comments linked to TAM domains supported the Likert responses. The development of CPGs, including their rationale was described. The systematic review found significant heterogeneity in CPG methods and quality, with many focusing on cardiac and pulmonary applications. The development of a European PoCUS CPG was described. This adopted a novel addition of a peer review consensus step of the supporting evidence presented. Conclusions There is a lack of studies evaluating ultrasound logbook APPs. The development of the LogMyScan APP, including the creation of an organisational taxonomy was described. The feasibility study which evaluated LogMyScan using TAM indicated good behavioural intention to use. The systematic review of PoCUS CPGs identified a paucity of publications in some important topic areas, and a wide variation in their quality. The development of a European PoCUS CPG adopting robust and innovative methods was described, providing important guidance for clinical practice in this rapidly expanding field.
| Date of Award | 22 Aug 2025 |
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| Original language | English |
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| Awarding Institution | |
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| Supervisor | Cormac Ryan (Supervisor) & Philip Cosson (Supervisor) |
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