Competency in interpretation of 12-lead electrocardiograms: a summary and appraisal of published evidence.
BACKGROUND
There have been many proposals for objective standards designed to optimize training, testing, and maintaining competency in interpretation of electrocardiograms (ECGs). However, most of these recommendations are consensus based and are not derived from clinical trials that include patient outcomes.


OBJECTIVE
To critically review the available data on training, accuracy, and outcomes of computer and physician interpretation of 12-lead resting ECGs.


METHODS
English-language articles were retrieved by searching MEDLINE (1966 to 2002), EMBASE (1974 to 2002), and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (1975-2002). The references in articles selected for analysis were also reviewed for relevance.


METHODS
All articles on training, accuracy, and outcomes of ECG interpretations were analyzed.


METHODS
Study design and results were summarized in evidence tables. Information on physician interpretation compared to a "gold standard," typically a consensus panel of expert electrocardiographers, was extracted. The clinical context of and outcomes related to the ECG interpretation were obtained whenever possible.


RESULTS
Physicians of all specialties and levels of training, as well as computer software for interpreting ECGs, frequently made errors in interpreting ECGs when compared to expert electrocardiographers. There was also substantial disagreement on interpretations among cardiologists. Adverse patient outcomes occurred infrequently when ECGs were incorrectly interpreted.


CONCLUSIONS
There is no evidence-based minimum number of ECG interpretations that is ideal for attaining or maintaining competency in ECG interpretation skills. Further research is needed to clarify the optimal way to build and maintain ECG interpretation skills based on patient outcomes.
Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA.
Stephen M
SM
Salerno
Patrick C
PC
Alguire
Herbert S
HS
Waxman
D002309:Cardiology / Q000592:standards; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003936:Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted; D003951:Diagnostic Errors; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000592:standards; D004562:Electrocardiography / Q000592:standards*; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D008505:Medical Staff, Hospital / Q000592:standards; D012015:Reference Standards