Evaluation of ECG Interpretation Among Undergraduate Medical Students at Universities in Makkah Region, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND: Electrocardiogram (ECG) Interpretation is one of the most important and critical skills for various medical specialists. It is essential for diagnosing and managing many cardiac diseases, including life-threatening conditions. AIM: To evaluate competency in ECG interpretation skills among medical students in the Makkah region and the associated factors. METHODS: Medical students from all Makkah region medical schools were asked to complete a web-based survey containing questions on 17 ECG strips. There were questions on primary ECG parameters (rate, rhythm, and axis), emergencies, and common ECG abnormalities. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors associated with their performance. A P value of < 0.05 was considered as significant. RESULTS: We enrolled 1239 medical students from medical schools in the Makkah region completed the questionnaire. The participants' ECG interpretation competency scores were generally low, with a median of 35.29% (IQR 17.65%-52.94%). Fifth and sixth-year students demonstrated significantly higher ECG competency scores compared students in the earlier years (P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that being in clinical years (OR: 1.65, 95% CI: 1.18-2.30, P = 0.003), self-study as primary source of ECG knowledge (OR: 0.58, 95% CI: 0.43-0.79, P = 0.001), and using both online and face-to-face learning methods (OR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.00-2.07, P = 0.049) were significantly associated with higher odds of adequate ECG interpretation competency. CONCLUSION: The study showed a significant need for improvement in ECG interpretation skills among medical students in the Makkah region. The findings underscore the importance of integrating practical ECG interpretation training throughout the medical curriculum, with emphasis on clinical exposure, self-study, and blended learning approaches.