Date of Award

Fall 9-19-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (MMSc)

First Advisor

Joseph H. Donroe, MD, MPH, MHS

Second Advisor

Christopher El Khuri, MD

Abstract

Objectives: Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is integral to emergency medicine (EM); however, little is known about its utilization by EM physician assistants (EMPA). This study aimed to characterize POCUS utilization, training, confidence, barriers, facilitators, and improvement priorities among Connecticut EMPAs. Methods: We distributed a 27‑item survey to EMPAs across 21 Connecticut Emergency Departments (ED). Results: 68 EMPAs responded across 16 EDs. 79.5% used POCUS at least weekly. Bedside instruction during shifts (84 %) and self‑directed learning (59 %) were common educational practices, while only 25% had PA‑school training. The main barriers to POCUS use were time constraints (64%), insufficient training (61%), and low confidence (54%). Longitudinal training and supervision ranked as top priorities for improving POCUS utilization. Conclusions: POCUS use is widespread among Connecticut EMPAs but is practiced at variable volumes and within a narrow range of clinical syndromes. Structured curricula, mentorship, and protected scanning time could improve EMPA POCUS utilization and confidence.

Keywords: point-of-care ultrasound, physician assistant, emergency medicine, medical education, ultrasound, emergency department

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