NT Regional Training Hub (NT RTH) with the support of Australasian Society for Ultrasound in Medicine (ASUM) have once again delivered Point of Care Ultrasound (PoCUS) training to the medical workforce of Nhulunbuy.

The free two-day practical workshop in May 2024 had 19 participants spanning across the health services of East Arnhem undertake this professional development opportunity. “We even had two GP Registrars fly in from Galiwin’ku, a Yolŋu community 150km west of Nhulunbuy,” Eliza Gill, Program Manager of the NT RTH reflected on how attractive it is to have training available in remote areas.

Dr Nadi Pandithage led the design and delivery of the workshop with Dr Lucy Owen, Dr Justine Miller, and sonographers Jen Maurier and Liz Jarvis all assisting with facilitator of the four stations.

Topics covered eFAST, Lung, Procedures (Vascular Access, Blocks, Aspirations), DVT, and Soft Tissue. Dr Emma Kennedy, a GP and Director of the Northern Territory Medical Program participated in the workshop and said it was “fantastic to have some practice with colleagues in using a simple tool that will enhance patient care”. The participants appreciated the workshop was delivered in Nhulunbuy for Nhulunbuy clinicians, and that it was relevant and personal.

A 1.5-hour session for Emergency Department Nurses from Gove District Hospital was also delivered with a focus on core ultrasound skills in bladder volume measurement, ultrasound guided peripheral IV Access, knobology and basic ultrasound physics. The hospital nurses were very thankful for having the opportunity to develop their ultrasound skills.

To find out more about the NT Regional Training Hub head to its website.