Saudi National Survey of Point of Care Ultrasound Training in Anesthesiology Residency Programs

Background Point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) has emerged as a valuable tool in anesthesiology, enhancing procedure accuracy, and real-time decision-making in the perioperative period. Although POCUS integration into Anesthesia practice has gained momentum in Saudi Arabia, yet its adoption, effectiveness, and challenges remain understudies. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the state of POCUS training and incorporation in Saudi Arabia Anesthesiology residency programs. Methods Program directors of Anesthesiology residency programs in Saudi Arabia, accredited by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties, were invited access to an online survey. The survey evaluated the current state of POCUS training, the assessment methods employed by each institution, and the perceived challenges to its instruction. Directors were asked regarding their opinion on the anticipated development of POCUS training in Anesthesiology residency programs in Saudi Arabia, as well as their opinions on the significance of various POCUS applications. Results A total of 36 out of 42 program directors were able to complete our survey (85.7% response rate). All respondents state POCUS training for vascular access, nerve blocks, neuraxial blocks, and TTE is provided. However, 77.8% reported that their institutions lack organized training programs. The main teaching method was informal bedside instruction; only 38.9% of programs included formal evaluation plans. A significant barrier was low staff knowledge; 83.3% of respondents reported 25% or less of their faculty members are experts in TTE, lung US, and gastric US. Only 11 programs had a designated "local POCUS expert," and 66.7% of programs lacked funds for extracurricular POCUS training. These findings highlight the need of standardized POCUS curricula and faculty development training within anesthesiology residency programs in Saudi Arabia. Conclusions In Saudi Arabia Anesthesiology residency programs, POCUS training is markedly disparate; numerous programs are deficient in funding, structured instruction, or experienced personnel. Enhancing competency and optimizing patient care rely on structured training, formal assessments, and advanced faculty development.