Daily Schedule:
Start time: 9h00
End time: 15h00
Specificities
Number of Residents per block = 3
Offered: Twice per Academic Year
Location:
Jewish General Hospital NICU
Montreal Children’s Hospital NICU
Preparatory Information:
All residents must come to the rotation prepared having reviewed the material online that was provided to them via email confirmation of their placement in the course.
Quick User Guide – SonoSIM (Simulation Ultrasound Platform)
1. Access & Login
Go to the SonoSIM website: https://sonosim.com
Each simulation case box includes:
A probe
A username & password (e.g., Learner 1, Learner 2, etc.)
Use these credentials to log in.
Remember: we have 5 learner accounts active at any one time.
2. Software Installation
The SonoSimulator software must be downloaded and installed on a computer that meets the minimum system requirements:
Windows (PC):
Windows 10 or later,
Intel i5 or higher, 8 GB RAM, 20+ GB free storage, USB 3.0 port.
Mac (OSX):
macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later,
Intel i5 or Apple M1/M2 chip, 8 GB RAM, 20+ GB free storage, USB-C/USB 3.0 port.
Download link available through the SonoSIM login portal.
Software must be installed before doing any hands-on virtual practice.
Theoretical modules can be accessed online without downloading the simulator. **You will need a USB port to connect the probe to the computer.
3. Equipment Rules
5 learners maximum can use the system simultaneously.
Probe distribution:
3 probes stored in the computer room, locker 1. (Ask POCUS leaders for combination of the locker).
1 probe dedicated to NNPs in Sarah Francoeur’s office.
1 probe in Dr Emilie Filion-Ouellet’s office (for staff/overflow use).
Important rules:
Do not bring probes or hardware home.
Return probes immediately to their designated location after use.
Contact Emilie or Sarah for any issues or technical questions.
** If your computer does not meet the minimum requirements, a dedicated laptop will be made available and will soon be added to the shared equipment.
4. Recommended Learning Path
Start with Introductory Modules
General introduction to ultrasound physics and knobology.
Theoretical Modules (Pathophysiology & POCUS Applications)
Review disease processes and the role of POCUS.
Can be done anywhere online, no simulator needed.
Practical Modules
Require the downloaded SonoSimulator software and use of the probe.
Follow the steps to calibrate the probe (need to be calibrated on a flat surface)
These modules allow virtual scanning practice.
** “Always calibrate your SonoSim probe before each new case to ensure that the virtual probe aligns with your hand movements properly.”
To calibrate: Hold the probe in the Start Position: footprint flat on a stable surface, with indicator pointed left, and probe body not tilted. If scanning a structure that requires a near-horizontal probe orientation, anchor the probe’s footprint (e.g., on your palm or a phantom) to avoid drift. Phantom limbs can be found in Martine Chagnon’s office
5. Suggested Neonatology Use Cases
Based on neonatal POCUS priorities, suggested modules include:
Ultrasound physics and fundamentals
Neonatal and infant neurosonography
Lung anatomy and physiology & Pediatric Lung Sonography Advanced clinical Ultrasound training
Airway anatomy and airway clinical
Heart anatomy and physiology, Cardiology core clinical, FoCUS Advanced Clinical Ultrasound Training Part 1and 2, Aorta and IVC,
Abdomen clinical ultrasound, Liver anatomy and physiology, intestinal/biliary, GI tract and gastric
Bladder anatomy and physiology and Bladder Scanning
Introduction to ultrasound guided procedures, Peripheral Venous Access, Ultrasound-Guided Neonatal & Infant Lumbar Puncture, Ultrasound-Guided Paracentesis, Ultrasound-Guided Pericardiocentesis, Ultrasound-Guided Thoracentesis
✅ Summary :
Step 1: Log in with Learner account
Step 2: Clean probe before/after use
Step 3: Start with Intro Module → then theory → then practice
Step 4: Respect equipment rules (locker return, 5 users max, no take-home)
For questions, contact Emilie Filion-Ouellet or Sarah Francoeur