Abstract: SA-PO0973
VExUS.io: A Tool to Improve Adoption of Venous Excess Ultrasound (VExUS) Among Trainees
Session Information
- Educational Research
October 24, 2026 | Location: Exhibit Hall A, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Educational Research
- 1000 Educational Research
Authors
- Krieger, Adam, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
- Baudy, Adrian J., Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
Background
Venous congestion contributes to cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) and AKI, yet VExUS remains underutilized due to interpretive complexity and limited training. We developed VExUS.io, a web app, with VExUS grading, waveform and image references, probe-placement guidance, lung ultrasound integration, automated reporting, and an evidence summary.
Methods
In this prospective usability study, 37 internal medicine trainees used VExUS.io and completed a post-use survey assessing baseline familiarity, confidence, perceived utility, and barriers. Usability was assessed via the System Usability Scale (SUS).
Results
Baseline VExUS exposure was limited, with 42% of trainees reporting no prior familiarity, and 76% reporting no or novice Doppler POCUS experience. Mean SUS was 89.95, indicating excellent usability. Self-reported confidence in assigning a VExUS grade increased from 2.56 pre-use to 3.78 post-use (p<.001); confidence in appropriate clinical indications was 3.83 post-use. Participants agreed that the app reduced cognitive load (3.68), improved understanding of venous congestion/Doppler waveforms (3.69), and increased intent to use VExUS clinically (3.58). On knowledge items, 86% selected the appropriate clinical scenario for VExUS use, and 91% would escalate decongestive therapy for a grade 3 VExUS with AKI. Top barriers included lack of time (56%), difficulty interpreting images (39%), and limited ultrasound access (31%).
Conclusion
VExUS.io demonstrated excellent usability and significantly improved trainee confidence in VExUS grading, while also improving knowledge and intent to incorporate VExUS into clinical practice. This scalable digital tool may facilitate broader adoption of VExUS for optimized management in CRS and congestive AKI.
Acknowledgment
The authors thank Dr. Robert Hoover for conceiving the usability study design. App development was aided by Google Gemini.
VExUS.io interface displaying VExUS grading; icons at each step provide probe placement and reference waveform guidance.