Enhancing gastric ultrasound training with standardized patient-based drinking simulation: a self-controlled study

Gastric cancer remains a major health burden in China, with low early screening rates and limited access to endoscopic services. Gastric ultrasound offers a noninvasive, low-cost alternative but is underutilized due to the lack of effective training models. This study aimed to evaluate a novel standardized patient (SP)-based drinking simulation for teaching gastric ultrasound to residents. In a self-controlled design, 32 ultrasound residents underwent a structured training program comprising a 90-minute theoretical lecture and a 2-hour hands-on workshop. Trainees acted as mutual SPs after ingesting warm water to simulate gastric filling. Outcomes included theoretical test scores, Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS) assessments, and Likert-scale self-assessment questionnaires. DOPS was conducted immediately after training and at one-month follow-up to assess skill retention. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS v30.0. Theoretical scores significantly improved from 5.09 ± 0.89 to 8.28 ± 0.58 (P < 0.05, Pearson’s r = 0.87). Post-training DOPS scores averaged 41.03 ± 2.72, with 81.25% of residents achieving the passing threshold. However, scores declined at one month (32.78 ± 3.69, P < 0.05), highlighting the need for reinforcement. Self-assessment scores increased from 34.27% to 80.75% (P < 0.05), with marked gains in confidence, procedural readiness, and satisfaction. No correlation was observed between theoretical and procedural scores (R² = 0.001). SP-based drinking simulation is a practical, low-cost, and educationally impactful method for teaching gastric ultrasound. It effectively improves residents’ theoretical knowledge, procedural ability, and self-confidence, while addressing the current gap in gastric-specific simulation training and supporting broader implementation in resource-limited settings. However, the observed short-term skill attrition highlights the need for continuous reinforcement and integration of interactive or computer-based theoretical modules. Future multicenter studies should validate its long-term effectiveness and clinical applicability.