RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of a multifaceted quality improvement intervention on variability of left ventricular dimensions as measured on pediatric echocardiograms. METHODS: Variability of measurements of left ventricular dimensions was assessed using percent error before a multifaceted educational intervention. Sonographers attended group sessions, used visual prompts and received individual feedback regarding the proper technique for measuring the left ventricle. Variability was reassessed following the intervention. RESULTS: Sonographers were more likely to use proper measurement technique (38% vs. 62%, P = .017) after the educational intervention. The percent error of the left ventricular end systolic measurement decreased significantly (12.4% to 8.8%, P = .002). The percent error of the left ventricular end diastolic measurement showed a trend toward a decrease (7.7% to 5.8%, P = .067). There was no significant improvement in percent error for other measurements. Use of correct technique and sonographer experience of less than 5 years predicted decreased percent error. CONCLUSION: A multifaceted educational intervention can be used to improve measurement variability in pediatric echocardiography laboratories.
