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Apiratwarakul K, Ienghong K, Tongthummachat N, Suzuki T, Tiamkao S, Bhudhisawasdi V. Assessment of Competency of Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Emergency Medicine Residents during Ultrasound Rotation at the Emergency Department. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2021.5954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is the core competency in the Emergency Medicine (EM) residency training. However, there are many methods that can be used to evaluate this competency, and the best practices for teaching ultrasonography to residents have yet to be determined.
AIM: The researchers aimed at evaluating the POCUS knowledge and skills of the EM residents after having participated in the POCUS training during their first ultrasound rotation in the Emergency Department.
METHODS: A curriculum was developed in the form of a 2-week rotation in the EM residency program at the Department of EM at Khon Kaen University’s Srinagarind Hospital. It consisted of didactic lectures, bedside ultrasound trainings, the journal club, and the process of reviewing the images. Tools were developed, which included a knowledge exam. For each resident, the assessments were administered before and after the rotation. Furthermore, an ultrasound skills test was developed to be used at the end of the 1st year EM residency program.
RESULTS: Nine EM residents completed their rotations and the tests. The average pre-training score and post-training scores were 5.25 ± 1.03 and 8.50 ± 1.20, respectively. The mean difference score between pre- and post-test was 3.25 ± 1.28. (95% CI −4.321, −2.178). In terms of the ultrasound skills test, the average total score was 26.13 out of 30 (87.1%). Moreover, the residents had higher scores in the aspects of image acquisition (87.5%) and image interpretation (87.5%). However, for the aspect of clinical decision-making, the average score was 75%. The survey questions indicated that with respect to all of the academic activities, the “Bedside ultrasound,” which had encouraged the residents to learn POCUS, was given the highest score (4.75 of 5).
CONCLUSIONS: The 2-week ED ultrasound rotation had improved the residents’ EM ultrasound knowledge and skills.
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Nakao S, Vaillancourt C, Taljaard M, Nemnom MJ, Woo MY, Stiell IG. Diagnostic Accuracy of Lung Point-Of-Care Ultrasonography for Acute Heart Failure Compared With Chest X-Ray Study Among Dyspneic Older Patients in the Emergency Department. J Emerg Med 2021; 61:161-168. [PMID: 33795166 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2021.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute heart failure and exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are sometimes difficult to differentiate in the emergency department (ED). OBJECTIVES We sought to determine the classification performance of lung point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) compared with chest x-ray study to identify acute heart failure in an older population. METHODS We conducted a cohort study with additional health records review between March and September 2017. We included consecutive patients aged 50 years and older with shortness of breath from suspected acute heart failure or COPD. The reference standard was discharged diagnosis, ED diagnosis with confirmation by another physician, or diagnosis made by health record reviews. We calculated the classification performance of lung POCUS to diagnose acute heart failure as well as that of chest x-ray study, and compared them by exact McNemar test. RESULTS There were 81 patients evaluated with lung POCUS, and 67 had acute heart failure. Emergency physicians identified acute heart failure by lung POCUS with sensitivity of 92.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 83.4-97.5%) and specificity of 85.7% (95% CI 57.2-98.2%). The radiology reading of chest x-ray study had sensitivity of 63.6% (95% CI 50.9-75.1%) and specificity of 92.9% (95% CI 66.1-99.8%). The sensitivity of lung POCUS was significantly higher than that of chest x-ray study (p = 0.0003). CONCLUSIONS Lung POCUS in a real clinical setting was highly sensitive and specific in identifying acute heart failure, and performed better than chest x-ray in an older population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunichiro Nakao
- Department of Traumatology and Acute Critical Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan; Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christian Vaillancourt
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Monica Taljaard
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marie-Joe Nemnom
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Y Woo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ian G Stiell
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Amari K, Fukumori N, Anzai K, Yamashita SI. The Diagnostic Process for the Evaluation of Acute Abdominal Pain by Resident Trainees in Japan: A Cross-sectional Study. Intern Med 2020; 59:1257-1265. [PMID: 32418953 PMCID: PMC7303460 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.3526-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Acute abdominal pain (AAP) of diverse etiology is a common chief complaint of patients who present to the emergency department (ED). AAP may pose a diagnostic challenge to physicians in training. We aimed to evaluate whether or not resident trainee doctors examine patients presenting with AAP in a Japanese acute-care hospital following Kendall's diagnostic algorithm. Methods We conducted a retrospective medical chart review from January 2015 to December 2016. Patients Patients ≥50 years old who presented to the ED within 7 days of the onset of AAP who were evaluated by residents at the ED of an acute care hospital were enrolled in this study. Patients transported by ambulance and referred from other hospitals and classified as level 1 or 2 according to the Japanese version of the Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale were excluded. Data, including the clinical history, location and character of pain, and age and gender of patients as well as the level of experience of residents, were abstracted from charts. We evaluated the concordance rate between the actual diagnostic process followed by residents and Kendall's diagnostic algorithm for AAP. Results We analyzed 466 patients (mean age 67.6 years) in the study who were evaluated and diagnosed by 123 residents. The concordance rate between the diagnostic procedures performed by residents and those suggested by Kendall's diagnostic algorithm was 61.2%. A low concordance rate was observed among patients with peritoneal signs, shock or toxic appearance (25.0%), suggested acute coronary syndromes (ACS) (55.1%), epigastric or right upper-quadrant pain (52.8%), and left upper-quadrant pain (55.6%). Abdominal ultrasonography is one of the recommended examinations for patients with signs of peritoneal irritation, shock or toxic appearance, right lower-quadrant pain, and left upper- or lower-quadrant pain, but the rates were relatively low at 25.0%, 34.4%, 31.8%, and 26.7%, respectively. Conclusion Abdominal ultrasonography required by Kendall's diagnostic algorithm was not performed appropriately in patients with symptoms and signs of peritonitis, shock or toxic appearance, right lower-quadrant pain, and left upper- or lower-quadrant pain or in female patients by resident trainees. Our findings underscore the importance of providing resident doctors with focused training concerning ultrasonography by attending physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaori Amari
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saga-Ken Medical Center Koseikan, Japan
- Department of General Medicine, Saga University Hospital, Japan
| | - Norio Fukumori
- Education and Research Center for Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Japan
| | - Keizo Anzai
- Department of Hepatology, Diabetes, and Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Japan
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Schnittke N, Damewood S. Identifying and Overcoming Barriers to Resident Use of Point-of-Care Ultrasound. West J Emerg Med 2019; 20:918-925. [PMID: 31738719 PMCID: PMC6860390 DOI: 10.5811/westjem.2019.8.43967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Emergency medicine residency programs have rigorous point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) curricula. However, this training does not always readily translate to routine use in clinical decision-making. This study sought to identify and overcome barriers that could prevent resident physicians from performing POCUS during clinical shifts. Methods This was a two-step process improvement study. First, a survey was deployed to all residents of a three-year academic residency program to identify barriers to clinical use of POCUS. This survey identified the perceived lack of a uniform documenting protocol as the most important barrier to performing POCUS on shift. Second, as an intervention to overcome this barrier, a streamlined documentation protocol was developed and presented to residents. The primary outcome was the number of patients who had POCUS used in medical decision-making one year before and after intervention. Secondary outcomes were the level of training of residents performing exams and whether faculty overseeing exams were trained through an ultrasound fellowship program. Results POCUS use by residents increased from 82 to 223 patients before and after the intervention, respectively. Per resident, this translates to an absolute increase from 2.2 (95% confidence intervall [CI], 1.4, 3) to 5.8 (95% CI, 4, 7.6) or 3.6 (95% CI, 1.8, 5.4) exams/resident over the study period. We observed no significant difference in the proportions of scans attributable to the resident level of training (χ2 = 0.5, p = 0.47). The proportion of exams by non-ultrasound fellowship trained faculty increased significantly more compared to fellowship trained faculty (χ2 = 19, p<0.0001); however, both ultrasound fellowship trained and non-ultrasound fellowship trained faculty increased the absolute number of exams performed. Conclusion A key perceived barrier to resident-performed POCUS is unfamiliarity with documenting ultrasounds for medical decision-making. Educating residents in person about a POCUS documentation protocol may help overcome this barrier. Incorporating resident input and motivation into POCUS incentivization may increase utilization. Future studies in optimizing POCUS on shift will need to focus on streamlining documentation, addressing time constraints, and faculty support for resident-performed POCUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolai Schnittke
- Oregon Health and Science University, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland, Oregon
| | - Sara Damewood
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Emergency Medicine, Madison, Wisconsin
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Yard J, Richman PB, Leeson B, Leeson K, Youngblood G, Guardiola J, Miller M. The Influence of Cervical Collar Immobilization on Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter. J Emerg Trauma Shock 2019; 12:141-144. [PMID: 31198282 PMCID: PMC6557047 DOI: 10.4103/jets.jets_80_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior research has revealed that cervical collars elevate intracranial pressure (ICP) in patients with traumatic brain injury. Two recent small studies evaluated the change in optic sheath nerve diameter (ONSD) measured by ultrasound as a proxy for ICP following cervical collar placement in healthy volunteers. OBJECTIVE We sought to validate the finding that ONSD measured by ultrasound increases after cervical collar placement within an independent data set. METHODS This was a prospective, crossover study involving volunteers. Participants were randomized to either have the ONSD measured first without a cervical collar or initially with a cervical collar. Two sonographers performed independent ONSD diameter measurements. Continuous data were analyzed by matched-paired t-tests. Alpha was set at 0.05. The primary outcome parameter was the overall mean difference between ONSD measurements with the cervical collar on and off. Multiple linear regression was performed to examine the relationship between variables and the primary outcome parameter. RESULTS There were 30 participants enrolled in the study. Overall mean ONSD for participants without the collar was 0.365 ± 0.071 cm and with the collar was 0.392 ± 0.081 cm. The mean change in ONSD for participants with and without the collar was 0.026 ± 0.064 cm (95% confidence interval of difference: 0.015-0.038; P < 0.001). Multiple regression analysis did not identify any variables associated with the variation in ONSD observed for collar versus noncollar. CONCLUSIONS We confirmed that ONSD does vary by a measurable amount with placement of a rigid cervical collar on healthy volunteers when assessed by ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Yard
- CHRISTUS Health/Texas A&M Residency in Emergency Medicine, Corpus Christi, TX, USA
| | - Peter B. Richman
- CHRISTUS Health/Texas A&M Residency in Emergency Medicine, Corpus Christi, TX, USA
| | - Ben Leeson
- CHRISTUS Health/Texas A&M Residency in Emergency Medicine, Corpus Christi, TX, USA
| | - Kimberly Leeson
- CHRISTUS Health/Texas A&M Residency in Emergency Medicine, Corpus Christi, TX, USA
| | - Guy Youngblood
- CHRISTUS Health/Texas A&M Residency in Emergency Medicine, Corpus Christi, TX, USA
| | - Jose Guardiola
- Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi, TX, USA
| | - Michael Miller
- CHRISTUS Health/Texas A&M Residency in Emergency Medicine, Corpus Christi, TX, USA
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Schnobrich DJ, Mathews BK, Trappey BE, Muthyala BK, Olson APJ. Entrusting internal medicine residents to use point of care ultrasound: Towards improved assessment and supervision. MEDICAL TEACHER 2018; 40:1130-1135. [PMID: 29792102 DOI: 10.1080/0142159x.2018.1457210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Background: Internal medicine physicians and trainees are increasingly using, and seeking training in, diagnostic point of care ultrasound (POCUS). Numerous internal medicine training programs have described their curricula, but little has been written about how learners should be assessed, supervised, and allowed to progress toward independent practice, yet these practices are imperative for safe and effective use. Entrustable professional activities (EPAs) offer a practical method to assess observable units of professional work and make supervision decisions. Methods: An EPA for POCUS is used as a framework to assess and determine appropriate levels of supervision in an internal medicine residency program. Results: All learners have been able to advance to level 2 with a mandatory introductory boot camp course. Learners have been able to advance to higher levels of independence, often after taking formal elective programmatic coursework. However, not all learners taking the same coursework have been granted the same level of independence. Conclusions: It is feasible to assess and supervise internal medicine residents' ability to use diagnostic point of care ultrasound using an EPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Schnobrich
- a Department of Medicine , University of Minnesota Medical School , Minneapolis , MN , USA
- b Department of Pediatrics , University of Minnesota Medical School , Minneapolis , MN , USA
| | - Benji K Mathews
- a Department of Medicine , University of Minnesota Medical School , Minneapolis , MN , USA
- c Department of Hospital Medicine , HealthPartners , St. Paul , MN , USA
| | - Bernard E Trappey
- a Department of Medicine , University of Minnesota Medical School , Minneapolis , MN , USA
- b Department of Pediatrics , University of Minnesota Medical School , Minneapolis , MN , USA
| | - Brian K Muthyala
- a Department of Medicine , University of Minnesota Medical School , Minneapolis , MN , USA
- b Department of Pediatrics , University of Minnesota Medical School , Minneapolis , MN , USA
| | - Andrew P J Olson
- a Department of Medicine , University of Minnesota Medical School , Minneapolis , MN , USA
- b Department of Pediatrics , University of Minnesota Medical School , Minneapolis , MN , USA
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Panebianco N, Shofer F, O'Conor K, Wihbey T, Mulugeta L, Baston CM, Suzuki E, Alghamdi A, Dean A. Emergency Department Patient Perceptions of Transvaginal Ultrasound for Complications of First-Trimester Pregnancy. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2018; 37:1965-1975. [PMID: 29380893 DOI: 10.1002/jum.14546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 11/04/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Emergency department (ED) transvaginal ultrasound (US) is underused in clinical practice. This study assessed pregnant women's perceptions of ED transvaginal US in terms of pain, embarrassment, anxiety, and willingness to receive the procedure. Secondary variables include physicians' perceptions of patients' experiences. METHODS Women undergoing US examinations for complications of first-trimester pregnancy were prospectively surveyed before any US and after ED and/or radiology transvaginal US. Patients' and physicians' assessments of pain, embarrassment, and anxiety were measured with visual analog scales (0-100). RESULTS A total of 398 women were enrolled. In the pre-US survey, the median anxiety score was 14 (interquartile range, 3-51), and 96% of patients were willing to have an ED transvaginal US if necessary. Of those who had ED transvaginal US, 96% would agree to have another examination. Patients reported minimal pain/embarrassment, and there was no difference if performed in the ED versus radiology (median pain, 11.5 versus 13; P = .433; median embarrassment, 7 versus 4; P = .345). Of the 48 who had both ED and radiology transvaginal US, 85% thought the ED transvaginal US was worthwhile. Physicians accurately assessed patient's embarrassment and pain (mean differences, 3.5 and -1.9, respectively; P > .25 for both); however, they overestimated them relative to the pelvic examination (mean difference for embarrassment, 12.8; P < .0001; pain, 8.0; P = .01). CONCLUSIONS Pregnant ED patients report low levels of anxiety, pain, and embarrassment, and after ED transvaginal US, 96% would agree to have the examination again. There is no difference in pain/embarrassment between ED and radiology transvaginal US. Emergency department physicians accurately assessed patients' pain and embarrassment with ED transvaginal US but overestimated them compared to the pelvic examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nova Panebianco
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Frances Shofer
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Katie O'Conor
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Tristan Wihbey
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lakeisha Mulugeta
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Cameron M Baston
- the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Evan Suzuki
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Adel Alghamdi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Penn Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Anthony Dean
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE We sought to determine which interventions have effectively increased point-of-care ultrasound (US) use in a pediatric emergency department (ED). DESIGN/METHODS We evaluated the impact of specific interventions conducted over a 5-year period (2010-2015) on point-of-care US performance in a tertiary care pediatric ED. Ultrasound use by attending physicians and fellows was ascertained from a departmental database. Interventions assessed included the following: (1) initiation of an US fellowship, (2) acquisition of a second US machine, (3) performance of an US-related research project in the department, (4) initiation of faculty US curriculum, (5) earlier introduction of US education for pediatric emergency medicine fellows, and (6) administrative mandate dictating faculty requirements for credentialing. Mean monthly US use was trended over time using statistical process control methodology, and the impact of major interventions was analyzed using interrupted time-series analyses. RESULTS The mean number of US scans increased from 2.0 to 5.9 per attending per month and from 4.3 to 7.1 per fellow per month over the study period. Using interrupted time-series analyses, we observed the only intervention to significantly increase attending US utilization was an administrative credentialing mandate, with an associated increase of 6% per month (incidence rate ratio, 1.06; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.11). CONCLUSIONS Point-of-care US use has increased over time for both fellows and attending physicians. We observed that an administrative mandate led to a significant increase in US use among attending physicians.
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Hosseini M, Bhatt A, Kowdley GC. Effectiveness of an Early Ultrasound Training Curriculum for General Surgery Residents. Am Surg 2018; 84:543-546. [PMID: 29712603 DOI: 10.1177/000313481808400428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Ultrasound (US) is fast becoming an extension of the physical examination in most surgical settings. Unfortunately, few residency programs offer a formal US training curriculum to their general surgical residents. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a formal US training module for general surgery residents. We studied the degree of improvement observed between junior and senior residents. A training-based study was conducted to evaluate baseline knowledge and skills. Subsequently, a formal didactic and practical training program for our surgery residents was instituted. Residents were then scored in various categories. A total of 18 surgical residents comprising 10 junior and 8 senior residents completed our US training module. There was no significant improvement in the scores of the senior resident group. In the junior group, the written test, image detection, optimization, and interpretation categories improved significantly after completion of the training module. Comparison of improvement in scores between junior and senior residents revealed a significantly better improvement in the junior group than in the senior group. Early training of surgical residents can significantly improve US performance in junior residents. This early training has the benefit of increased utilization of bedside US for diagnostic and procedural purposes. Interestingly, even without formal training, skill acquisition of senior residents is noted to occur during modern surgical training.
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Tripu R, Lauerman MH, Haase D, Fatima S, Glaser J, Cardarelli C, Scalea TM, Murthi S. Graduating Surgical Residents Lack Competence in Critical Care Ultrasound. JOURNAL OF SURGICAL EDUCATION 2018; 75:582-588. [PMID: 29033272 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsurg.2017.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ultrasound provides accessible imaging for bedside diagnostics and procedural guidance, but may lead to misdiagnosis in untrained users. The main objective of this study was to determine observed and self-perceived competence with critical care ultrasound in graduated general surgery residents. DESIGN The design of this study was a retrospective review. Ultrasound training program records were reviewed for number of prior ultrasound examinations performed, self-perceived competence, observed competence on faculty examinations, and intended future use of individual critical care ultrasound examinations. SETTING This study was undertaken at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, which is a tertiary care center in Baltimore, MD. PARTICIPANTS Graduated general surgery residents were identified at the beginning of their surgical critical care fellowship at our institution, and were included if they participated in our critical care ultrasound education program. Fifteen graduated general surgery residents were included. RESULTS Prior ultrasound experience ranged from 100% for focused assessment of sonography for trauma (FAST) to 13.3% for advanced cardiac assessment. Self-perceived competence ranged from 46.7% with FAST to 0% for advanced cardiac assessment. Observed competence ranged from 20.0% for FAST examinations to 0% for basic cardiac assessment, advanced cardiac assessment, and inferior vena cava (IVC) assessment. All participants intended to use ultrasound in the future for FAST, pneumothorax detection and basic cardiac assessment, and 86.7% for IVC assessment and advanced cardiac assessment. Of participants with self-perceived competence, 28.6% had observed competence with FAST, 0% with IVC assessment, and 100% with pneumothorax detection. CONCLUSIONS Graduated general surgery residents are not competent in multiple critical care ultrasound examinations despite universally planning to use critical care ultrasound in future practice. Current exposure to ultrasound in residency may give a false sense of competency with ultrasound use. A standardized ultrasound curriculum is an urgent need for general surgery training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renuka Tripu
- Division of Trauma and Critical Care, R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Margaret H Lauerman
- Division of Trauma and Critical Care, R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland.
| | - Daniel Haase
- Division of Trauma and Critical Care, R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Syeda Fatima
- Division of Trauma and Critical Care, R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Cassandra Cardarelli
- Departement of Surgery, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Thomas M Scalea
- Division of Trauma and Critical Care, R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sarah Murthi
- Division of Trauma and Critical Care, R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
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Siegel-Richman Y, Kendall J. Establishing an Ultrasound Curriculum in Undergraduate Medical Education: How Much Time Does It Take? JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2018; 37:569-576. [PMID: 28877363 DOI: 10.1002/jum.14371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 05/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Over the years, the use of ultrasound in the medical profession has become a common occurrence. As a result, many medical schools are considering an ultrasound curriculum for first- and second-year medical students. The question posed by many of these programs is how much time and effort are required to establish such a curriculum. We at the University of Colorado School of Medicine sought to quantify the resources and time required. METHODS We conducted a cohort study that analyzed the time spent teaching, as well as the types of instructors (eg, faculty, resident, and peer student) that contributed to our ultrasound curriculum. The study population consisted of instructors who participated in the curriculum during the 2014-2015 academic year. We analyzed the amount of time that facilitators spent teaching and tabulated these data using their specialty. RESULTS Our data revealed that within an academic year, a combined total of 484 hours were spent teaching ultrasound to first- and second-year medical students combined. A total of 6 days were required to teach ultrasound to first-year medical students, and a total of 5 days were required for second-year medical students. It required 1 instructor for every 8 students, and most the faculty who volunteered time were from the field of emergency medicine, followed by family medicine and radiology. CONCLUSIONS We describe the number of hours and instructors required to implement an ultrasound curriculum for undergraduate medical education.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John Kendall
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Denver Health Medical Center, Denver, Colorado, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Sjogren AR, Leo MM, Feldman J, Gwin JT. Image Segmentation and Machine Learning for Detection of Abdominal Free Fluid in Focused Assessment With Sonography for Trauma Examinations: A Pilot Study. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2016; 35:2501-2509. [PMID: 27738293 PMCID: PMC7929643 DOI: 10.7863/ultra.15.11017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this pilot study was to test the feasibility of automating the detection of abdominal free fluid in focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST) examinations. Perihepatic views from 10 FAST examinations with positive results and 10 FAST examinations with negative results were used. The sensitivity and specificity compared to manual classification by trained physicians was evaluated. The sensitivity and specificity (95% confidence interval) were 100% (69.2%-100%) and 90.0% (55.5%-99.8%), respectively. These findings suggest that computerized detection of free fluid on abdominal ultrasound images may be sensitive and specific enough to aid clinicians in their interpretation of a FAST examination.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Megan M Leo
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts USA
| | - James Feldman
- Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts USA
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Wydo SM, Seamon MJ, Melanson SW, Thomas P, Bahner DP, Stawicki SP. Portable ultrasound in disaster triage: a focused review. Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg 2015; 42:151-9. [PMID: 26038019 DOI: 10.1007/s00068-015-0498-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Ultrasound technology has become ubiquitous in modern medicine. Its applications span the assessment of life-threatening trauma or hemodynamic conditions, to elective procedures such as image-guided peripheral nerve blocks. Sonographers have utilized ultrasound techniques in the pre-hospital setting, emergency departments, operating rooms, intensive care units, outpatient clinics, as well as during mass casualty and disaster management. Currently available ultrasound devices are more affordable, portable, and feature user-friendly interfaces, making them well suited for use in the demanding situation of a mass casualty incident (MCI) or disaster triage. We have reviewed the existing literature regarding the application of sonology in MCI and disaster scenarios, focusing on the most promising and practical ultrasound-based paradigms applicable in these settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Wydo
- Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ, USA
| | - M J Seamon
- The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - S W Melanson
- St Luke's University Health Network, Bethlehem, PA, USA
| | - P Thomas
- St Luke's University Health Network, Bethlehem, PA, USA
| | - D P Bahner
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - S P Stawicki
- Department of Research and Innovation, St Luke's University Health Network, Bethlehem, PA, 18015, USA.
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National specialty trends in billable diagnostic ultrasound in the ED: analysis of Medicare claims data. Am J Emerg Med 2014; 32:1470-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2014.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Revised: 08/28/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Schnobrich DJ, Gladding S, Olson APJ, Duran-Nelson A. Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Internal Medicine: A National Survey of Educational Leadership. J Grad Med Educ 2013; 5:498-502. [PMID: 24404317 PMCID: PMC3771183 DOI: 10.4300/jgme-d-12-00215.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2012] [Revised: 09/30/2012] [Accepted: 12/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ultrasound is a valuable tool in the safe performance of an increasing number of procedures. It has additionally emerged as a powerful instrument for point-of-care assessment by offering internists an opportunity to extend their traditional physical examination. OBJECTIVE This study explored how internal medicine (IM) educators perceive the use of ultrasound for procedures and point-of-care assessments, the extent to which curricula for teaching IM residents ultrasound skills exist, and perceived barriers to teaching its use. METHODS In February 2012, we administered a 27-question survey to all members of the Association of Program Directors in Internal Medicine, eliciting their opinions about the use of point-of-care ultrasound. RESULTS Of 2200 surveys distributed electronically, 234 were returned (a 11% response rate), including 167 by program directors or assistant program directors. Respondents highly rated the usefulness of ultrasound for central-line placement, thoracentesis, paracentesis, and diagnosis of pleural effusions. Evaluation of vena cava and heart, and placement of radial artery catheters received somewhat lower usefulness scores. Forty-five respondents (25%) reported having formal curricula to teach point-of-care ultrasound, and 46 respondents without current ultrasound programs were planning to initiate them in the next 12 months. Potential barriers to teaching and use of ultrasound included the time and cost to train faculty, the cost of ultrasound machines, and the time required to train residents. CONCLUSIONS Educational leaders in IM view point-of-care ultrasound as a valuable tool in diagnosis and procedures, and many residency programs are teaching these skills to their learners.
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Lewiss RE, Pearl M, Nomura JT, Baty G, Bengiamin R, Duprey K, Stone M, Theodoro D, Akhtar S. CORD-AEUS: consensus document for the emergency ultrasound milestone project. Acad Emerg Med 2013; 20:740-5. [PMID: 23859589 DOI: 10.1111/acem.12164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2013] [Revised: 03/23/2013] [Accepted: 03/24/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In 2012, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) designated ultrasound (US) as one of 23 milestone competencies for emergency medicine (EM) residency graduates. With increasing scrutiny of medical educational programs and their effect on patient safety and health care delivery, it is imperative to ensure that US training and competency assessment is standardized. In 2011, a multiorganizational committee composed of representatives from the Council of Emergency Medicine Residency Directors (CORD), the Academy of Emergency Ultrasound of the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine (SAEM), the Ultrasound Section of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEM), and the Emergency Medicine Residents' Association was formed to suggest standards for resident emergency ultrasound (EUS) competency assessment and to write a document that addresses the ACGME milestones. This article contains a historical perspective on resident training in EUS and a table of core skills deemed to be a minimum standard for the graduating EM resident. A survey summary of focused EUS education in EM residencies is described, as well as a suggestion for structuring education in residency. Finally, adjuncts to a quantitative measurement of resident competency for EUS are offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Resa E. Lewiss
- Department of Emergency Medicine; St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center; New York; NY
| | - Michelle Pearl
- Department of Emergency Medicine; Cedars-Sinai Medical Center; Los Angeles; CA
| | - Jason T. Nomura
- Department of Emergency Medicine; Christiana Care Health System; Newark; DE
| | - Gillian Baty
- Department of Emergency Medicine; University of New Mexico; Albuquerque; NM
| | - Rimon Bengiamin
- Department of Emergency Medicine; University of California San Francisco at Fresno; Fresno; CA
| | - Kael Duprey
- Long Island Jewish Medical Center; New Hyde Park; NY
| | - Michael Stone
- Department of Emergency Medicine; Brigham & Women's Hospital; Boston; MA
| | - Daniel Theodoro
- Department of Emergency Medicine; Washington University Hospital Center; St. Louis; MO
| | - Saadia Akhtar
- Department of Emergency Medicine; Beth Israel Hospital Center; New York; NY
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Dedicated Emergency Department Ultrasound Rotation Improves Residents’ Ultrasound Knowledge and Interpretation Skills. J Emerg Med 2012; 43:129-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2011.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2010] [Revised: 09/10/2010] [Accepted: 03/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review will examine the current evidence regarding pediatric blunt abdominal trauma and the physical exam findings, laboratory values, and radiographic imaging associated with the diagnosis of intra-abdominal injuries (IAI), as well as review the current literature on pediatric hollow viscus injuries and emergency department disposition after diagnosis. RECENT FINDINGS The importance of the seat belt sign on physical examination and screening laboratory data remains controversial, although screening hepatic enzymes are recommended in the evaluation of nonaccidental trauma to identify occult abdominal organ injuries. Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) has modest sensitivity for hemoperitoneum and IAI in the pediatric trauma patient. Patients with concern for undiagnosed IAI, including bowel injury, may be considered for hospital admission and serial abdominal exams without an increased risk of complications, if an exploratory laparotomy is not performed emergently. SUMMARY Although the FAST exam is not recommended as the sole screening tool to rule out IAI in hemodynamically stable trauma patients, it may be used in conjunction with the physical exam and laboratory findings to identify children at risk for IAI. Children with a normal physical exam and normal abdominal CT may not require routine hospitalization after blunt abdominal trauma.
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Bedside renal ultrasound in the evaluation of suspected ureterolithiasis. Am J Emerg Med 2012; 30:218-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2010.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2010] [Revised: 11/10/2010] [Accepted: 11/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Emergency department patients are frequently undifferentiated, need accurate risk assessment and stratification, and are time-critical in their need for diagnosis and resuscitation. Valid, noninvasive hemodynamic monitoring modalities are essential to differentiate high from low risk patients, and to perform goal-directed management. This review analyses recent literature, which describes innovation in the range of noninvasive monitoring tools and places them in the emergency medicine context. RELEVANT FINDINGS A range of noninvasive measures of hemodynamic status are both commonly used, or are in the research and development phase. Pulse oximetry waveforms, electrocardiogram-based heart rate variability, Doppler and B-mode ultrasound, echocardiography, transthoracic bioimpedance, pressure pulse waveform analysis and near-infrared spectroscopy all have potential value in diagnosis and monitoring of hemodynamics, particularly used to explore autonomic nervous system control of cardiovascular function and by extension the early phases of compensation for illness and injury. Noninvasive techniques coupled with advances in data visualization and pattern recognition bring the potential for revolution to emergency department hemodynamic monitoring. SUMMARY Noninvasive measures of hemodynamic status and function are increasingly being used, although much still remains in the research domain. Noninvasive measures may not only offer similar variables to traditional vital signs, but add a new dimension of hemodynamic descriptors.
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Shayne P, Coates WC, Farrell SE, Kuhn GJ, Lin M, Maggio LA, Fisher J. Critical appraisal of emergency medicine educational research: the best publications of 2010. Acad Emerg Med 2011; 18:1081-9. [PMID: 21996074 DOI: 10.1111/j.1553-2712.2011.01191.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective was to critically appraise and highlight medical education research studies published in 2010 that were methodologically superior and whose outcomes were pertinent to teaching and education in emergency medicine (EM). METHODS A search of the English language literature in 2010 querying PubMed, Scopus, Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), and PsychInfo identified 41 EM studies that used hypothesis-testing or observational investigations of educational interventions. Five reviewers independently ranked all publications based on 10 criteria, including four related to methodology, that were chosen a priori to standardize evaluation by reviewers. This method was used previously to appraise medical education published in 2008 and 2009. RESULTS Five medical education research studies met the a priori criteria for inclusion and are reviewed and summarized here. Comparing the literature of 2010 to 2008 and 2009, the number of published educational research papers increased from 30 to 36 and then to 41. The number of funded studies remained fairly stable over the past 3 years at 13 (2008), 16 (2009), and 9 (2010). As in past years, research involving the use of technology accounted for a significant number of publications (34%), including three of the five highlighted studies. CONCLUSIONS Forty-one EM educational studies published in 2010 were identified. This critical appraisal reviews and highlights five studies that met a priori quality indicators. Current trends and common methodologic pitfalls in the 2010 papers are noted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Shayne
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Adhikari S, Blaivas M, Lander L. Comparison of bedside ultrasound and panorex radiography in the diagnosis of a dental abscess in the ED. Am J Emerg Med 2011; 29:790-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2010.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2009] [Revised: 02/07/2010] [Accepted: 03/07/2010] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
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Holliman CJ, Mulligan TM, Suter RE, Cameron P, Wallis L, Anderson PD, Clem K. The efficacy and value of emergency medicine: a supportive literature review. Int J Emerg Med 2011; 4:44. [PMID: 21781295 PMCID: PMC3158547 DOI: 10.1186/1865-1380-4-44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2011] [Accepted: 07/22/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Study objectives The goal of this study was to identify publications in the medical literature that support the efficacy or value of Emergency Medicine (EM) as a medical specialty and of clinical care delivered by trained emergency physicians. In this study we use the term "value" to refer both to the "efficacy of clinical care" in terms of achieving desired patient outcomes, as well as "efficiency" in terms of effective and/or cost-effective utilization of healthcare resources in delivering emergency care. A comprehensive listing of publications describing the efficacy or value of EM has not been previously published. It is anticipated that the accumulated reference list generated by this study will serve to help promote awareness of the value of EM as a medical specialty, and acceptance and development of the specialty of EM in countries where EM is new or not yet fully established. Methods The January 1995 to October 2010 issues of selected journals, including the EM journals with the highest article impact factors, were reviewed to identify articles of studies or commentaries that evaluated efficacy, effectiveness, and/or value related to EM as a specialty or to clinical care delivered by EM practitioners. Articles were included if they found a positive or beneficial effect of EM or of EM physician-provided medical care. Additional articles that had been published prior to 1995 or in other non-EM journals already known to the authors were also included. Results A total of 282 articles were identified, and each was categorized into one of the following topics: efficacy of EM for critical care and procedures (31 articles), efficacy of EM for efficiency or cost of care (30 articles), efficacy of EM for public health or preventive medicine (34 articles), efficacy of EM for radiology (11 articles), efficacy of EM for trauma or airway management (27 articles), efficacy of EM for using ultrasound (56 articles), efficacy of EM faculty (34 articles), efficacy of EM residencies (24 articles), and overviews and editorials of EM efficacy and value (35 articles). Conclusion There is extensive medical literature that supports the efficacy and value for both EM as a medical specialty and for emergency patient care delivered by trained EM physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- C James Holliman
- The Center for Disaster and Humanitarian Assistance Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, and George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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Stawicki SP, Howard JM, Pryor JP, Bahner DP, Whitmill ML, Dean AJ. Portable ultrasonography in mass casualty incidents: The CAVEAT examination. World J Orthop 2010; 1:10-9. [PMID: 22474622 PMCID: PMC3302028 DOI: 10.5312/wjo.v1.i1.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2010] [Revised: 10/21/2010] [Accepted: 10/28/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ultrasonography used by practicing clinicians has been shown to be of utility in the evaluation of time-sensitive and critical illnesses in a range of environments, including pre-hospital triage, emergency department, and critical care settings. The increasing availability of light-weight, robust, user-friendly, and low-cost portable ultrasound equipment is particularly suited for use in the physically and temporally challenging environment of a multiple casualty incident (MCI). Currently established ultrasound applications used to identify potentially lethal thoracic or abdominal conditions offer a base upon which rapid, focused protocols using hand-carried emergency ultrasonography could be developed. Following a detailed review of the current use of portable ultrasonography in military and civilian MCI settings, we propose a protocol for sonographic evaluation of the chest, abdomen, vena cava, and extremities for acute triage. The protocol is two-tiered, based on the urgency and technical difficulty of the sonographic examination. In addition to utilization of well-established bedside abdominal and thoracic sonography applications, this protocol incorporates extremity assessment for long-bone fractures. Studies of the proposed protocol will need to be conducted to determine its utility in simulated and actual MCI settings.
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In reply. Ann Emerg Med 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2009.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Adhikari S, Blaivas M. Utility of bedside sonography to distinguish soft tissue abnormalities from joint effusions in the emergency department. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2010; 29:519-526. [PMID: 20375371 DOI: 10.7863/jum.2010.29.4.519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine the utility of bedside sonography to differentiate soft tissue abnormalities from joint effusions. METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of emergency department (ED) patients presenting with joint pain, erythema, and swelling who received bedside sonography. The ED sonographic examinations were performed by emergency physician sonologists who were not involved in clinical assessment and management of these patients. The treating physician's opinions regarding the probability of joint effusion and need for aspiration were documented in the sonography log before the sonographic examination was performed. The bedside sonograms of all patients included in this study were also reviewed for accuracy. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. RESULTS A total of 54 patients (mean age +/- SD, 41 +/- 18.9 years) were identified over a 1-year period. The symptomatic joints in our study subjects were as follows: knee, 24 of 54 (44%); elbow, 21 of 54 (38%); ankle, 8 of 54 (15%); and metatarsophalangeal joint, 1 of 54 (2%). Twenty-two of 54 patients (40.7%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 27.6%-53.8%) were found to have joint effusions on sonography. Sonography altered management in 35 of 54 patients (65%; 95% CI, 52%-77.5%). Joint aspiration was planned in 39 of 54 cases (72.2%; 95% CI, 60.2%-84.1%) before sonography. After sonography, only 20 of these patients (37%; 95% CI, 24.1%-49.9%) underwent joint aspiration. There was a statistically significant difference in treatment plans after the addition of bedside sonographic results (P < .01). CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that bedside sonography is useful in differentiating joint effusions from soft tissue abnormalities and directing appropriate therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikar Adhikari
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Northside Hospital Forsyth, 1200 Northside Forsyth Dr, Cumming, GA 30041-7659 USA
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