Looking-at-Probe Behaviors of Novice Nurse Operators During Ultrasound Hip Examinations of Infants: Video-Based Inductive Analysis

Introduction Nurse-led early ultrasound screening is essential for the timely diagnosis of developmental dysplasia of the hip; however, prolonged examination time may be associated with examination failure. We investigated gaze behaviors during examinations and their association with examination time among novice operators. Methods Three nurses performed developmental dysplasia of the hip ultrasound examinations. Their procedures were video-recorded, and the recordings were manually coded. “Looking-at-probe” behavior was categorized, and its frequency and duration were analyzed in association with total examination time. Results The participants spent 19.9% of examination time looking at the probe. A higher frequency and longer duration of “looking-at-probe” behavior were significantly correlated with increased examination times. Six categories of looking-at-probe behavior were identified. Examinations involving a subcategory of postmanipulation checks were significantly longer. Conclusion Novice operators frequently viewed the probe, and most of these behaviors were associated with prolonged examinations. Educational interventions should emphasize minimizing unnecessary probe viewing.