Train
Read the CORE curriculum
Learn with diagrams and how-to videos
This curriculum describes the proper technique to safely and effectively use point of care ultrasound in the acute care of heart, lung, abdomen, and first trimester obstetrics pathologies. It includes protocols for image generation, image identification, and clinical integration. All examination questions are based on the curriculum.
SECTION 1
POCUS
basics
5 modules with diagrams
- Ultrasound controls
- Physics of ultrasound
- Probe movements
- Probe types
- System care
SECTION 2
Advanced skills for certification
6 modules with videos
- Sub-xiphoid cardiac
- Aorta
- Abdomen
- First trimester obstetrics
- Pleural effusion
- Pneumothorax
Sign Up for a Course
The courses listed below are offered by independent organizations.
Are you looking for a CPoCUS accredited course? Accredited courses have been reviewed by CPoCUS to ensure they meet the applicable training, instructor and certification requirements.
Course Providers
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Note: Courses are offered independently. CPoCUS does not determine course fees or cancellation policies.
Calgary Internal Medicine POCUS Elective
-
Introductory courses
Certification courses
CanPoCUS
- Introductory courses
EDE Bootcamp
-
Introductory courses
Certification courses
Department of Emergency Medicine - University Of Manitoba
- Certification courses
Nickel POCUS
- Introductory courses
- Certification courses
Pocus Outreach
-
Introductory courses
Certification courses
Rural Independent Practitioner Program (RIPP)
- Certification courses
Try eLearning
eLearning combines the online curriculum with online testing
Used by Canadian universities
Available in French or English for CORE tracks
Online curriculum
Didactic Material
Didactic material is divided into modules
- Ultrasound controls
- Physics of ultrasound
- Probe movements
- Probe types
- System care
- Sub-xiphoid cardiac view
- Aorta
- Abdomen
- First-trimester obstetrics
- Pleural effusion
- Pneumothorax
Instructional Videos
Videos are aligned with didactic material
Videos show scanning on live models with guidance for image generation, interpretation, and clinical integration.
Online Testing
Quizzes
Quizzes are aligned with modules and customized by course directors.
Final Exam
A final exam can be created from a combination of quizzes.
CERTIFY
How to get certified
as an Independent Practitioner (IP)
IP candidate completes a CPoCUS-accredited CORE introductory course
IP candidate completes logged scan requirements supervised by a CORE IP examiner
IP candidate passes three examinations with a CORE IP examiner
CORE IP examiner submits an IP request for the IP candidate
IP candidate pays one-time certificate fee to finalize IP certification
IP candidate receives IP number and CORE IP certificate
Brief overview of certification examinations
You must be a CPoCUS member to attempt any examination
All examination questions are based on the curriculum
Written examination assesses knowledge base.
The Written exam is conducted on a computer (one examiner supervises many candidates).
Pass score of 85%.
The Written exam is an online, multiple choice, closed book examination with 20-80 questions. If the candidate fails the first attempt, they receive a report detailing incorrect answers. Candidates may re-write the examination the next day.
Visual examination assesses image interpretation and ability to integrate POCUS findings into clinical care.
The Visual exam is conducted on a computer (one examiner supervises one candidate).
Pass score of 85%.
The Visual exam uses an online interactive video presentation. The examiner asks the candidate to interpret images and videos, and incorporate findings into case scenarios.
Practical examination assesses image generation.
The Practical exam is conducted on a standardized patient (one examiner supervises one candidate).
Pass score of 100%.
The Practical exam is an in-person scanning examination. The examiner uses a detailed checklist of essential techniques to assess the candidate.
The candidate should perform the techniques without hesitation and without prompting from the examiner.
Maintain
Keep up to date with MOC
Maintenance of Competency (MOC) helps refresh and expand your POCUS skills
Online quizzes available in French and English
Test your POCUS skills in these tracks:
Acute Care CORE
Acute Care MSK
Family Medicine CORE
Resuscitation
Diagnostic
How to complete MOC modules online
Login, select a MOC module in Members sections
Read Curriculum
Take Quiz (score ≥ 85%)
Download Certificate of Completion
Earn CME credits with MOC
Earn up to 48 Mainpro+ credits by reviewing the CORE curriculum
and passing the CORE MOC quizzes
Get certified by CPoCUS
Become a Member
Take advantage of the benefits below and more!