Teaching to the test: developing an assessment tool for novice echocardiographers

Focused critical care echocardiography (FCCE) is a powerful tool that allows for the rapid assessment of several important physiologic states quickly, inexpensively, and (seemingly) without risk to the patient. FCCE, performed by non-cardiologists, has gained popularity over the past several decades, and today many residencies and fellowship programs are incorporating some echocardiography into their curriculum. In addition, there are a large number of established physicians who are learning to incorporate FCCE into their practice. Finding ways, therefore, to ensure a minimum standard of operator competence is a crucial step to safeguard quality and patient safety.