CONFERENCE PROCEEDING
Strengthening midwifery skills in point-of-care ultrasound with hands-on training in scanning, interpretation, and clinical use across perinatal care
More details
Hide details
1
Toronto Metropolitan University, Midwifery, Toronto, Canada
Eur J Midwifery 2026;10(Supplement 1):A1083
ABSTRACT
THE LEARNING OUTCOMES:
Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a transformative diagnostic tool for improving pregnancy outcomes in resource-constrained rural and remote settings. (1) It supports midwives in real-time assessment, decision-making, and provision of care. In midwifery practice, POCUS enhances capacity during early pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period and is especially valuable for clients who may face geographic, financial, or systemic barriers. (2)
By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
1. Explain the role of POCUS in midwifery practice, including scope, benefits, and limitations.
2. Demonstrate foundational scanning techniques and probe use.
3. Interpret ultrasound images and recognize when referral for formal imaging is required.
THE PROCESS/ACTIVITIES:
The 90-minute workshop will begin with an evidence-informed, didactic presentation introducing the role of POCUS in midwifery practice. Afterward, participants will spend 60 minutes rotating through four stations where they will practice scanning in a simulated setting.
Each station will provide a discrete skill:
Viability and confirmation of early pregnancy loss
Fetal presentation
Placental location
Assessment of amniotic fluid volume
Support for the use of simulation models and ultrasound equipment will be provided by experienced facilitators. The workshop will conclude with a 15-minute debrief and Q&A.
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION:
Participants will engage in active, hands-on learning in small groups as they rotate through the stations. Each participant will have the opportunity to use the probe to scan, interpret images, and receive real-time feedback.
Additional reading
1. Doig M, Dizon J, Guerrero K, Parange N. Exploring the availability and impact of antenatal point-of-care ultrasound services in rural and remote communities: a scoping review. Australas J Ultrasound Med. 2019;22(3):174-85.
2. Johnston BK et al. Canadian midwives’ perspectives on the clinical impacts of point of care ultrasound in obstetrical care: A concurrent mixed-methods study. Heliyon. 2024 Mar 30;10(6).