Derivation of a Performance Checklist for Ultrasound-Guided Arthrocentesis Using the Modified Delphi Method.
OBJECTIVE
Arthrocentesis is an important skill for physicians in multiple specialties. Recent studies indicate a superior safety and performance profile for this procedure using ultrasound guidance for needle placement, and improving quality of care requires a valid measurement of competency using this modality.


METHODS
We endeavored to create a validated tool to assess the performance of this procedure using the modified Delphi technique and experts in multiple disciplines across the United States.


RESULTS
We derived a 22-item checklist designed to assess competency for the completion of ultrasound-guided arthrocentesis, which demonstrated a Cronbach's alpha of 0.89, indicating an excellent degree of internal consistency.


CONCLUSIONS
Although we were able to demonstrate content validity for this tool, further validity evidence should be acquired after the tool is used and studied in clinical and simulated contexts.
Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA.
Derek
D
Kunz
Department of Emergency Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.
Manoj
M
Pariyadath
Department of Emergency Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.
Mary
M
Wittler
Department of Emergency Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.
Kim
K
Askew
Department of Emergency Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.
David
D
Manthey
Department of Emergency Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.
Nicholas
N
Hartman
D000069237:Arthrocentesis / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*; D057189:Checklist / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards*; D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000592:standards*; D003697:Delphi Technique; D005104:Expert Testimony; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*; D018084:Ultrasonography, Interventional / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*; D014481:United States
modified Delphi; procedural checklists; ultrasound-guided arthrocentesis