Electrocardiogram (EKG) Knowledge and Interpretation Proficiency Among Healthcare Professionals in Pakistan: a Prospective Cross-sectional Study

Overview

Journal Ann Med Surg (Lond)

Publisher Wolters Kluwer

Specialty Medical Education

Date 2024 Sep 6

PMID 39238999

Authors

Zair Hassan

Usha Kumari

Maria Waseem

Uzair Yaqoob

Moiz Sahito

Syeda Arshia Zehra

Nikhil Reddy

Muneeb Ullah Jan

Salim Surani

Aarash Khan

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: Electrocardiogram (EKG) is a commonly used diagnostic tool for the evaluation of the electrical activity of the heart. The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge and interpretation proficiency of EKG among healthcare professionals (HCPs) in Pakistan.

Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted among HCPs working in different healthcare settings. A structured questionnaire was used to assess the participants' theoretical knowledge and ability to interpret EKG findings. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and χ tests. The study indicates that EKG knowledge and interpretation proficiency among HCPs in Pakistan is unsatisfactory. The inadequacy of training periods of EKG training sessions and insufficient participation of HCPs in offered training opportunities put forward the need for the formation and introduction of better structured and efficient EKG training programmes.

Results: A total of 511 HCPs participated in the study, 28% of whom reportedly had received formal training for EKG interpretation. About 80% of the participants correctly identified theoretical questions pertaining to EKG, while 58% of the participants were able to accurately interpret EKG findings, and most HCPs (69.9%) read fewer than ten EKGs per week.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates a lack of expertise and a poor understanding of EKG in HCPs of Pakistan. The low level of EKG knowledge and interpretation proficiency among HCPs may lead to diagnostic errors and poor patient outcomes. Therefore, efforts should be made to improve EKG education and training among HCPs in Pakistan.

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