ECG training, competency assessment, and perceived development needs: a cross-sectional survey

Background: Accurate 12-lead ECG acquisition is essential for reliable interpretation, yet concerns persist regarding the long-term maintenance of technical accuracy after initial competency sign-off. This study examined current practices in ECG training, competency assessment, audit activity, and ongoing professional development among UK cardiac physiology trainees and qualified practitioners.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted, capturing training experiences, clinical exposure, audit processes, and perceived development needs.

Results: Forty practitioners participated. All had undergone initial competency assessment, though assessment methods varied. Clinical exposure was high, yet 97.5% reported no routine departmental audit of ECG acquisition. Strong support emerged for ongoing development, with 90% favouring annual refresher training and over 90% endorsing practical and interpretation-based audit.

Conclusion: Despite universal initial sign-off, structured mechanisms to maintain ECG acquisition accuracy are lacking. Routine audit and refresher training may strengthen governance and improve technical reliability.