POCUS HeartFocus Certification Program

The POCUS HeartFocus Certification Program is a focused cardiac ultrasound credential jointly developed by the POCUS Certification Academy and DESKi for clinicians using the HeartFocus cardiac imaging app. The program combines theoretical knowledge, practical application, clinical integration, and rigorous skills validation.

Through a combination of online learning, independent hands-on practice, and clinical assessment, this program equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively integrate cardiac ultrasound using HeartFocus into their clinical practice, enhancing patient care and diagnostic capabilities.

The HeartFocus app is required for this program.

Program Components

1. HeartFocus e-Learning Course
This self-paced online course provides everything you need to know about acquiring cardiac ultrasound scans with the HeartFocus app through eight interactive modules:

• Basic Cardiac Anatomy and Ultrasound Windows
• Preparing for Cardiac Ultrasound Exams
• Using the Ultrasound Probe and Adjusting the Image Settings
• Master HeartFocus Key Features
• Best Practices to Succeed Acquisition with HeartFocus
• Parasternal Window
• Apical Window
• Subcostal Window

The course features high-quality video demonstrations, interactive case studies, and module knowledge checks to reinforce learning. 

2. Summative Assessment

The assessment contains 30 questions in a mix of multiple-choice, drag and drop, and fill-in-the-blank formats. Some incorporate images or graphics.

3. Video Submissions
The video submission is designed to assess your practical abilities in cardiac POCUS. You will submit ten videos that will be graded against an expert rubric. All videos must be HIPAA compliant, .mp4 formatted, and 5-60 seconds long.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of the POCUS HeartFocus Certification Program, participants will be able to:

• Understand the principles and significance of cardiac POCUS examinations in clinical practice
• Recognize normal cardiac POCUS anatomy and common pathological findings
• Interpret key ultrasound artifacts specific to cardiac POCUS imaging
• Integrate cardiac POCUS findings into clinical decision-making
• Perform cardiac POCUS examinations following standardized protocols
• Apply cardiac POCUS skills in various clinical scenarios

Target Audience

This certification program is designed for physicians, advanced practice providers, and other clinicians involved in cardiac care across various clinical settings.

Program Duration

The program is designed to accommodate the busy schedules of healthcare professionals:

• The online course is self-paced, allowing for flexible learning
• Participants have up to 6 months to complete all components of the certification program

Upon successful completion of all program components, including passing the summative assessment, participants will receive:

• A POCUS HeartFocus Certification
• A digital badge for professional profiles
• A certificate of completion

Maintenance of Certification

The POCUS HeartFocus Certification is valid for 2 years. To maintain certification, participants must submit 5 cases, a renewal fee, and attestation of ongoing clinical practice.

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