How to Get Into: Paediatric Cardiology ST4

About the Author

Dr Kerrie Richardson, Paediatric Cardiology Clinical Fellow, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital

I am a Paediatric Cardiology registrar, having completed my general paediatrics training from ST1-ST4 in the South West. My journey began with a focus on neonatology, where I discovered my interest in echocardiography, steering me towards a career in paediatric cardiology. I have worked in two paediatric cardiology centres and am currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Manchester.

Courses & Conferences to Attend

• Hands on Neonatal & Paediatric echocardiography course
• Association for European paediatric and congenital cardiology (AEPC) annual
  meeting
• Hands on essential paediatric ECG course
• Cardiac morphology course
• PECSIG

• Hands on cardiac morphology course
• Echocardiography in congenital heart disease and paediatric acquired heart disease
  with morphology
• Hands on neonatal and paediatric echocardiography course
• Hands on essential paediatric ECG course
• AEPC
• PECSIG

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How to Maximise Your Portfolio

To maximise your CV for ST training in paediatric cardiology, proactive engagement is
key. Begin by attending an echocardiography course; this foundational step will enhance your practical skills. Concurrently, start a logbook of echocardiograms you’ve performed or interpreted, see an example of what to include on EACVI logbook.

Maximise exposure by attending paediatric cardiology clinics, both locally and at tertiary centres. Seize opportunities when tertiary consultants visit your District General Hospital, ensuring you actively participate in their clinics—practice
interpreting ECGs and echo’s, and don’t hesitate to ask insightful questions.

Enrol in a cardiac morphology course to deepen your understanding of various cardiac conditions. On your neonatology placements, find consultants proficient in echocardiography and shadow them, requesting hands-on learning when possible.

Commit to a Quality Improvement project or audit in paediatric cardiology. Approach consultants with your ideas or offer to assist with ongoing projects; their mentorship can be invaluable.

Seek a paediatric cardiology rotation during your general paediatrics training. If this isn’t feasible, consider an Out of Programme Experience (OOPE) or work as a clinical fellow to gain targeted experience—most applicants have at least six months in the field.

Engage in charity work related to paediatric cardiology to show commitment beyond clinical duties. Develop a local teaching program focused on paediatric cardiology topics like ECGs or cardiology emergencies.

Finally, writing up a compelling case report in paediatric cardiology and getting it published will highlight your analytical abilities and contribute to your research credentials.

Making the Most of Your Day Job

As an FY1-ST3 doctor aiming for a successful ST application in paediatric cardiology, integrate learning into your daily routine. For any paediatric cardiology patients you encounter, delve into their conditions, enhancing your clinical understanding. Dedicate time to read and interpret ECGs thoroughly—mastering the assessment of axis and QTc calculation is a skill that will serve you across various placements.

If you’re on an adult ward, actively seek out patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). Learn from their experiences and supplement these interactions with focused research on their conditions. Clinical examination is also crucial; regularly auscultate patients to hone your ability to detect heart murmurs and correlate these findings with ECG, chest X-ray, and echocardiography results.

Engage in audits and quality improvement projects relevant to cardiology; these initiatives demonstrate your investment in enhancing patient care. Furthermore, take every opportunity to teach medical students and colleagues
about cardiology.

Making the Most of Paediatric Cardiology ST4 Placements

Focus on completing audits and quality improvement (QI) projects, as these showcase your commitment to the specialty. Developing a teaching program related to paediatric cardiology demonstrates your leadership skills and dedication to education within the field.

Always be inquisitive about additional learning opportunities such as courses, teaching sessions, and conferences related to paediatric cardiology; these will broaden your knowledge and network within the specialty. Seek to write up case reports, which can be a gateway to understanding complex paediatric conditions in depth and contribute to
your academic profile.

Find out about conferences where you could submit your work, allowing you to share
your findings with the medical community and gain valuable feedback. Lastly, consistent practice of your clinical skills cannot be overstated. Engage in every opportunity to refine your ability to identify heart murmurs and compare your clinical findings to ecg and cardiac imaging.

What About Non-Paediatric Cardiology ST4 Placements?

When working in a specialty that differs from your interest, it’s crucial to find ways to integrate your interests with your current role. Make it a habit to read the ECGs of all your patients, for the valuable practice.

Actively seek out cardiology patients on your wards; cardiology conditions are common and understanding their management will be beneficial. Utilize your study leave strategically, perhaps arranging a taster week in paediatric cardiology to get exposure to the specialty. Consider attending paediatric cardiology ward rounds and clinics during your free time to gain insights and make connections with specialists in the field.

A taster week in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) can be particularly insightful since many paediatric cardiology patients are managed there, and understanding the critical care aspect of paediatric cardiology is essential.

Lastly, reach out to the paediatric cardiology team and express your interest in joining any ongoing projects. This will not only help you gain specific experience but also demonstrate your initiative and enthusiasm for the field.

Top 3 Tips for Getting Into Paediatric Cardiology ST4