Why POC Ultrasound?

Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) is a rapidly emerging methodology that quickly and more accurately assesses patients and facilitates early diagnosis. It does not replace standard ultrasound studies done by experienced ultrasonographers and radiologists.

It is a screening tool that allows for quick, accurate assessments and augments physical exam and history. Unlike 12 Lead EKG interpretation, this technology can be learned in modules according to provider needs. For Family Practice and Internal Medicine physicians and their advanced practice professionals, some of the modules include:

• Fundamentals, Safety, Knobology, Equipment setting, Transducers
• Differentiate Heart failure from respiratory failure
• Identify hepatomegaly or splenomegaly easily
• Volume status assessment
• Gallbladder disease
• Pneumonia detection (outperforms chest x-ray)
• AAA detection
• Hydronephrosis detection
• Differentiate between superficial infection, abscess, cellulitis
• Identify foreign bodies that even x-ray would miss
• Hundreds of MSK uses like identifying tendon tears and joint effusions
• Procedural needle guidance
• Dozens of pediatric uses like intussusception and appendicitis

RNs practicing Ultrasound Guided Peripheral Intravenous Placement (UGPIV)

For the emergency physician or paramedic, POCUS offers quick answers as to whether the patient is bleeding internally, a lung has collapsed and it can reliably differentiate dyspnea from heart failure or respiratory failure.

There are dozens of uses for physicians, paramedics, advanced practice professionals, nurses, veterinarians and vet techs. Please contact us to explain all of the advantages point-of-care ultrasound can offer your practice.