EFFECTIVENESS OF TEACHING ECG STRATEGY IN PRECLINICAL YEARS: STUDENTS’ PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Background:

ECG interpretation is an important skill in patient care provision in all levels of health care system. Although its importance cannot be denied in clinical practice, ECG patterns of patients are often misdiagnosed causing adverse outcomes and even death of patients. This study aims to assess the basic knowledge in undergraduates about ECG interpretation and to determine the effectiveness of teaching ECG strategy during the preclinical years.

Methods:

A cross sectional study was conducted in Ziauddin University Karachi in which 232 MBBS and BDS students from preclinical years participated. A structured questionnaire was administered regarding ECG teaching in preclinical years. Answers were recorded on Likert scale. Statistical analysis was done on SPSS version 20. Frequencies and percentages were calculated for categorical variables. Chi square test was used to compare groups. P value of ≤0.05 was considered as significant.

Results:

Among 232 students 132(81.5%) MBBS and 62(88.6%) BDS, considered the use of practical classes as a good mode of teaching ECG while 124(76.5%) MBBS and 59(84.3%) BDS students considered problem based learning to teach ECG. 54(77.1%) BDS and 134(82.7%) MBBS students considered ECG to be taught by a cardiologist. The correct response rate of the basic knowledge of ECG was 83% among MBBS and 80% among BDS students.

Conclusion:

The basic knowledge of ECG interpretation was good among students of Ziauddin University. However there is a need of more integrated program along with collaboration with cardiologists to teach this competency.