EVALUATION OF CHALLENGES OF LEARNING ULTRASOUND SCAN AMONG CLINICAL RADIOGRAPHY STUDENTS AT USMANU DANFODIYO UNIVERSITY SOKOTO

Abstract

Ultrasound is a safe, noninvasive, and widely used imaging modality, but its operator-dependent nature and complex image interpretation make it challenging for students. Clinical radiography students often struggle with understanding image formation, correlating anatomy, and obtaining adequate practical exposure. Objective: This study evaluated the challenges associated with learning ultrasound scanning among clinical radiography students at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUS), examined the relationship between learning performance and level of education, and assessed differences in learning challenges based on instructor type. Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 80 consenting 400- and 500-level clinical radiography students at UDUS. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire during clinical postings between January and November 2025. Ethical approval was obtained, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Most respondents were aged 21–25 years, predominantly male, and mainly in 400 level. Over half perceived ultrasound as more difficult than other imaging modalities. Image interpretation was the major challenge, followed by limited hands-on practice, scanning anxiety, and transducer manipulation difficulties. Learning performance improved with academic progression and advanced training. Students reported better understanding when taught by radiographers compared to radiologists, and most believed instructor background influenced learning outcomes. Conclusion: Clinical radiography students at UDUS experience significant challenges in learning ultrasound, particularly in image interpretation and practical skill acquisition. Although academic progression improves understanding, insufficient hands-on exposure limits competence.