Do emergency physicians save time when locating a live intrauterine pregnancy with bedside ultrasonography?

Focused carotid ultrasound to predict major adverse cardiac events among emergency department patients with chest pain

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Point-of-care focused vascular ultrasound (FOVUS), an assessment of carotid artery plaque, predicts coronary artery disease in outpatients referred for coronary angiography. Our primary objective was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of sonographer-performed FOVUS to predict major adverse cardiac events (MACE) within 30 days among patients with suspected cardiac ischemia in the emergency department (ED).

METHODS

We conducted a prospective cohort study of patients with chest pain presenting to a tertiary care ED who had an electrocardiogram and cardiac troponin testing. The primary outcome was a composite of death, acute myocardial infarction, or re-vascularization at 30 days. A sonographer performed FOVUS scans in consenting eligible subjects. Emergency physicians, blinded to the sonographer FOVUS result, performed a second FOVUS on some subjects.

RESULTS

We recruited 326 subjects (age 62.1 ± 13.5 years; 166 (52%) men), 319 of whom completed an FOVUS scan by the sonographer. Of these, 198 (62%) had a positive FOVUS scan and 41 (13%) had a 30-day MACE. The sensitivity was 83% (95% CI 71-94%), specificity 41% (95% CI 36-47%), positive-likelihood ratio 1.41 (95% CI 1.19-1.68), and negative-likelihood ratio 0.41 (95% CI 0.23-0.75). Among 71 subjects also scanned by an emergency physician, the Kappa was 0.50 (95% CI 0.31-0.70), suggesting moderate agreement between sonographer and emergency physician on the determination of significant carotid plaque.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of carotid plaque on sonographer-performed FOVUS is associated with 30-day MACE in ED patients presenting with chest pain. The prognostic performance of FOVUS is not sufficient to support its use as a stand-alone risk stratification tool in the ED. Future work should investigate FOVUS in conjunction with validated clinical decision rules for chest pain and the impact of enhanced training and quality improvement in the conduct of FOVUS by emergency physicians.

REGISTRATION

This study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02947360).

Determination of Endovaginal Ultrasound Proficiency and Learning Curve Among Emergency Medicine Trainees

OBJECTIVES

Performing and interpreting endovaginal ultrasound is an important skill used during the evaluation of obstetric and gynecologic emergencies. This study aims to describe the level of proficiency and confidence achieved after performing 25 endovaginal examinations.

METHODS

This is a prospective study at a single urban academic emergency department. Participants performed a minimum of 25 endovaginal ultrasounds under the supervision of a point-of-care ultrasound expert. Anatomical structures were identified by the expert under ultrasound prior to each session. Each examination was scored for agreement of findings between the participant and expert. The data were used to develop a performance curve identifying when proficiency was achieved, where experiential benefit diminished, and when participants felt confident.

RESULTS

A total of 1117 endovaginal ultrasound examinations were performed by 50 participants. Agreement after 25 examinations was highest (>95%) for probe insertion and preparation, bladder and uterus identification, and directionality. Agreement was lowest for identification of the ovaries (76%). Experiential benefit plateaus occurred earliest (10 exams) for preparation and insertion followed by bladder identification and directionality. Surprisingly, ovarian experiential benefit plateaued at 16 exams. Participant confidence improved overall and was lowest for the identification of ovaries and abnormal pelvic anatomy.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a significant learning curve when performing endovaginal ultrasound. Our data do not support the use of 25 examinations as a minimum standard for identification of the ovaries or abnormal ovarian pathology.

Ultrasound in the Emergency Department Identifies Ectopic Pregnancy Post Hysterectomy: A Case Report

Introduction

Ruptured ectopic pregnancy is one of the leading causes of maternal death. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has been shown to be highly sensitive for excluding ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy after a hysterectomy is a rare but life-threatening occurrence. We present a case where POCUS helped to diagnose a post-hysterectomy ectopic pregnancy.

Case report

A 36-year-old female with a prior surgical history of hysterectomy without oophorectomy presented to the emergency department with lower abdominal pain. A POCUS revealed free fluid in the right upper quadrant with an unremarkable gallbladder. Subsequently, the pelvic POCUS noted free fluid as well as a heterogeneous structure in the right adnexa. The clinician ordered a serum beta human chorionic gonadotropin level, which was 173.2 international units per milliliter (lU/mL) (negative: < 5m IU/ml). Transvaginal ultrasound revealed a right adnexal echogenic structure with surrounding vascularity and moderate, complex free fluid suggestive of hemorrhage. Given the concern for possible ectopic pregnancy, obstetrics took the patient to the operating room where a right tubal ectopic pregnancy was confirmed.

Conclusion

A ruptured ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening condition that requires rapid diagnosis. Ectopic pregnancy post hysterectomy is an uncommon occurrence infrequently considered in the differential diagnosis of lower abdominal pain, leading to considerable delays in diagnosis. Although uncommon, emergency clinicians must consider this diagnosis in female patients with lower abdominal pain.

The Utility of Maternal Point of Care Ultrasound on Labor and Delivery Wards

Point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) refers to limited bedside ultrasound used to evaluate patients for conditions specific to the scope of their practice. Given the benefits of its application, interest in its use is increasing. We aimed to review the literature and assess the potential feasibility of using POCUS of the heart and lungs in the field of obstetrics. We aim to describe its relevance and value as an adjunctive tool for critically ill obstetric patients on labor and delivery wards.

Teaching Seasoned Doctors New Technology: An Intervention to Reduce Barriers and Improve Comfort With Clinical Ultrasound

Introduction Although clinical ultrasound (CUS) is a core skill that is a requirement for emergency medicine (EM) residency graduation, only a fraction of EM practitioners who trained prior to this requirement are certified in CUS. The objective of the study was to implement a CUS workshop for practicing EM physicians, identify barriers to utilization, and assess comfort with the machine, obtaining and interpreting images, and incorporating CUS into clinical practice. Methods This was a prospective descriptive cohort study of EM physician faculty who participated in an interactive 5-hour CUS workshop intervention that introduced four core CUS modalities via didactics and hands-on scanning stations. Pre- and post-surveys were administered to identify barriers to utilization and assess perceived comfort with CUS using a 5-point Likert scale. Results were analyzed using Fisher's exact and paired t-tests. Results Thirty-five EM physicians participated with a 100% survey response rate. Only five of the physicians were ultrasound certified at the time of the workshop. On average, physicians were 16 years post-residency. Prior to the workshop, 29% had minimal ultrasound experience and 43% had not performed more than 50 ultrasounds. In the pre-course survey, every physician expressed at least one barrier to CUS utilization. Post-workshop, physicians felt significantly more comfortable using the ultrasound machine (p=0.0008), obtaining and interpreting images (p=0.0009 and p=0.0004), and incorporating CUS into clinical practice (p=0.002). Conclusion This workshop is an effective tool to expose practicing physicians to core concepts of CUS, improve their comfort level, and reduce barriers to ultrasound utilization.

Detection of Unknown Pregnancy With Complications Using Point-of-Care Ultrasound

Eclampsia, a condition diagnosed in pre-eclamptic patients who experience seizures, can lead to maternal and fetal death if not treated early. The present case discusses the clinical management of an 18-year-old female who presented to the emergency department (ED) after a generalized tonic-clonic seizure. A physical examination revealed that she was also hypertensive. Based on these symptoms which required urgency due to the patient's instability, and the suspicion that the patient could be pregnant, point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) was performed. In this case, a POCUS was a faster more accessible modality than a urine or serum human chorionic gonadotropin test. Although the patient denied that she was pregnant, POCUS identified that she was approximately 22-24 weeks pregnant. The patient was promptly diagnosed with eclampsia and given medication to control her blood pressure and seizures. This case highlights the benefits of using POCUS in the ED to expedite clinical decisions by identifying the etiology of a patient's condition and lends itself to the discussion of its utility in a critically ill pregnant woman. It also serves to reinforce the importance of keeping eclampsia as part of an emergency physician's differential when confronted with a potentially pregnant patient with relevant symptoms.

Experiences and outcomes of women with bleeding in early pregnancy presenting to the Emergency Department: An integrative review

BACKGROUND

Bleeding in early pregnancy occurs in approximately a quarter of all pregnancies and is a common reason for presentation to the Emergency Department (ED). This review combined current knowledge about experiences, interventions, outcomes and frequency of women presenting to the ED with per vaginal (PV) bleeding in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy.

METHODS

This integrative literature review was conducted using electronic database and hand searching methods for primary research published from 2000; followed by screening and appraisal. Articles were compared and grouped to identify characteristics and patterns that guided the synthesis of categories.

RESULTS

Forty-two primary research articles met inclusion criteria. Four main categories related to experiences and outcomes of women with bleeding in early pregnancy presenting to the ED were identified: presentation frequency and characteristics; women and their partners' experiences in the ED; interventions and treatments; patient and health service outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Negative and often frustrating experiences are reported by women experiencing PV bleeding, their partners and ED healthcare providers. While strategies such as early pregnancy assessment services contribute to improved outcomes, the availability of these services vary. Further research is needed to identify specific needs of this group of women and their partners, and the staff providing their care in the ED, to inform strategies for improved quality of care.

The effect of point-of-care ultrasound on length of stay in the emergency department in children with neck swelling

BACKGROUND

Ultrasound is the imaging modality of choice in children presenting to the emergency department (ED) with soft tissue neck swelling. Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) has good accuracy when compared to comprehensive radiology department ultrasound (RADUS). POCUS could potentially improve ED length of stay (LOS) by improving efficiency. We aimed to evaluate the LOS of pediatric patients seen in ED with soft tissue neck swelling who received POCUS compared to RADUS. We determined unscheduled 30-day return visit rates in both groups as a balancing measure.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of the electronic medical record for our cross-sectional study of discharged patients ≤21 years of age who had a neck ultrasound performed by a credentialed POCUS physician or by the radiology department between July 2014 and January 2020. We included patients who had both POCUS and RADUS in the POCUS group. We compared median ED LOS in both groups using the Mann Whitney U test and proportion of unscheduled return visits to the ED in both groups using odds ratio and 95% CI.

RESULTS

There were 925 patients: 76 with only POCUS, 6 with POCUS and RADUS, and 843 with only RADUS performed. Median LOS in the POCUS group was 68.5 min (IQR 38.3120.3) versus 154.0 min (IQR 111.0, 211.0) in the RADUS group (p < 0.001). Return visit overall was 7.6%: 13.2% in the POCUS group versus 7.1% in the RADUS group (p = 0.07).

CONCLUSION

Pediatric patients evaluated in the ED for soft tissue neck swelling had a shorter LOS with POCUS than with RADUS without a statistically significant increase in 30-day return visits. We suggest a "POCUS First" approach to the care of these patients.

Point-of-Care Ultrasound Facilitates Management of Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy

ABSTRACT

Abdominal pain in the pregnant adolescent presents a diagnostic dilemma with potential life-threatening etiologies. We present a case where point-of-care ultrasound was used to facilitate diagnosis and expedite lifesaving management of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy. We further review the technique and literature for first-trimester transabdominal point-of-care ultrasound.

Use of point-of-care ultrasound to diagnose an alternate cause of flank pain in a patient with presumed renal colic

This is a case of a 34-year-old male patient who presented to the emergency department (ED) with severe left flank pain. Due to the patient's cardiac history, elevated troponin, lactic acidosis, and lack of renal calculi on a noncontrast CT, focused cardiac ultrasound was performed, which showed left ventricle thrombus. The patient was later found to have bi-interventricular thrombi causing both pulmonary embolism and renal infarction. This is an uncommon diagnosis in the ED, where point-of-care ultrasound helped in diagnosing and guiding the management and disposition of this case.

Point-of-care Ultrasound to Evaluate Breast Pathology in the Emergency Department

Introduction

As physician-performed point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) becomes more prevalent in the evaluation of patients presenting with various complaints in the emergency department (ED), one application that is significantly less used is breast ultrasound. This study evaluates the utility of POCUS for the assessment of patients with breast complaints who present to the ED and the impact of POCUS on medical decision-making and patient management in the ED.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of ED patients presenting with breast symptoms who received a POCUS examination. An ED POCUS database was reviewed for breast POCUS examinations. We then reviewed electronic health records for demographic characteristics, history, physical examination findings, ED course, additional imaging studies, and impact of the POCUS study on patient care and disposition.

Results

We included a total of 40 subjects (36 females, 4 males) in the final analysis. Most common presenting symptoms were breast pain (57.5%) and a palpable mass (37.5%). “Cobblestoning,” ie, dense bumpy appearance, was the most common finding on breast POCUS, seen in 50% of the patients. Simple fluid collections were found in 37.5% of patients.

Conclusion

Our study findings illustrate the utility of POCUS in the evaluation of a variety of breast complaints in the ED.

Point of Care Ultrasound First: An Opportunity to Improve Efficiency for Uncomplicated Pregnancy in the Emergency Department

Introduction: Research suggests emergency providers using point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) to confirm an uncomplicated intrauterine pregnancy (IUP) can decrease emergency department (ED) length of stay (LOS) compared to a radiology department ultrasound (RADUS). The objective of this study was to compare the time to diagnosis and LOS between POCUS and RADUS patients. Methods: This was a retrospective study at one urban medical center. A standardized tool was used to abstract data from a random sample of pregnant patients diagnosed with uncomplicated IUP between January 2016 and December 2017 at a single tertiary care medical center. Microsoft Excel 2010 software was used to measure time intervals, prepare descriptive statistics, and perform Mann-Whitney U tests to compare differences. Results: A random sample of 836 (36%) of the 2,346 emergency department patients diagnosed with an IUP between 8-20 weeks' gestation during the study period was evaluated for inclusion. Three hundred sixty-six met inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on which type of ultrasound scan they received first: POCUS (n=165) and RADUS (n=201). Patients who received POCUS were found to have an IUP identified in an average of 48 minutes (95% CI, 43 to 53), while the RADUS group's mean time to diagnosis was 120 minutes (95% CI 113 to 127) with a difference of 72 minutes (95% CI, 63 to 80; p<0.001). The mean LOS for patients who received POCUS was 132 minutes (95% CI, 122 to 142), while that of the RADUS group was 177 minutes (95% CI 170 to 184) with a difference of 45 minutes (95% CI 32 to 56; p<0.001). The study is limited by its single-center, retrospective design and by lack of blinding of data abstractors. Conclusion: Pregnant emergency department patients diagnosed with an uncomplicated IUP between 8-weeks and 20-weeks' gestation had statistically significant reduction in time to diagnosis and disposition from the ED if assessed with POCUS as compared to RADUS.

The feasibility of bedside transvaginal ultrasonography in non-pregnant women in the emergency department

STUDY OBJECTIVE

We recorded data on the routine use of point-of-care transvaginal ultrasound (POC TVUS) for the evaluation of non-pregnant women with pelvic complaints in the Emergency Department (ED), and sought to determine how it altered the diagnostic impression and management.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study. Adult non-pregnant women with pelvic complaints undergoing POC TVUS were enrolled. Pre and post ultrasound, the treating physician completed a data collection form indicating the most likely cause of the patient's pain, current treatment plan, and expected ultrasound findings. Immediately after the ultrasound, the treating physician completed another form to indicate details about the sonographic process and findings, and whether a radiologyperformed TVUS was planned.

RESULTS

Of 113 women enrolled, 79% had both ovaries visualized and the POC TVUS led to changes in plan in 43% of patients, including 3 emergent/urgent interventions; 48% of patients had unexpected findings. Of the 25% who had an additional radiology exam, there were no instances of discordant findings when both ovaries were assessed to be normal on ED Ultrasound. The ultrasound added <10 minutes in 92% of patients. With an ED ultrasound only (n = 85), the median length of stay (LOS) was 282 (IQR 197-323) minutes, compared to 437 (IQR 367-500) minutes when a radiology ultrasound was required (n = 28) (median difference,170 minutes [95% CI 122-212 min]).

CONCLUSION

In this study, emergency physicians were able to efficiently obtain and interpret POC TVUS images that changed assessment of non-pregnant women with pelvic pain without significantly increasing the ED length of stay.

The use of evaluation tool for ultrasound skills development and education to assess the extent of point-of-care ultrasound adoption in lebanese emergency departments

Background:

Previously acknowledged as “bedside ultrasound”, point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) is gaining great recognition nowadays and more physicians are using it to effectively diagnose and adequately manage patients. To measure previous, present and potential adoption of PoCUS and barriers to its use in Canada, Woo et al established the questionnaire “Evaluation Tool for Ultrasound skills Development and Education” (ETUDE) in 2007. This questionnaire sorted respondents into innovators, early adopters, majority, and nonadopters.

Objectives:

In this article, we attempt to evaluate the prevalence of PoCUS and the barriers to its adoption in Lebanese EDs, using the ETUDE.

Materials and Methods:

The same questionnaire was again utilized in Lebanon to assess the extent of PoCUS adoption. Our target population is emergency physicians (EPs). To achieve a high response rate, hospitals all over Lebanon were contacted to obtain contact details of their EPs. Questionnaires with daily reminders were sent on daily basis.

Results:

The response rate was higher in our population (78.8%) compared to Woo et al's (36.4%), as the questionnaire was sent by email to each physician with subsequent daily reminders to fill it. In fact, out of the total number of the surveyed (85 physicians), respondents were 67, of which 76.1% were males and of a median age of 43. Using ETUDE, results came as nonadopters (47.8%), majority (28.3%), early adopters (16.4%), and innovators (7.5%). Respondents advocated using PoCUS currently and in the future in five main circumstances: focused assessment with sonography in trauma (FAST) (current 22.9%/future 62.9%), first-trimester pregnancy (current 17.1%/future 68.6%), suspected abdominal aortic aneurysm (current 5.7%/future 51.4%), basic cardiac indications (current 8.6%/future 57.1%), and central venous catheterization (current 22.9%/future 85.7%).

Conclusion:

This study is the first to tackle the extent of use and the hurdles to PoCUS adoption in Lebanese emergency medicine practice, using ETUDE. The findings from this study can be used in Lebanon to strengthen PoCUS use in the future.

Accuracy of point-of-care ultrasound by pediatric emergency physicians for testicular torsion

INTRODUCTION

Acute scrotum is a common presentation to the pediatric emergency department, and ultrasound is frequently used to narrow the differential diagnosis. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is increasingly used by urologists and emergency physicians and could potentially be used to detect pediatric testicular torsion.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to determine the accuracy of POCUS by pediatric emergency physicians in diagnosing testicular torsion and the agreement between point-of-care ultrasound and final diagnosis for other causes of acute scrotum.

STUDY DESIGN

A chart review of patients presenting to the study emergency department who received POCUS by a pediatric emergency physician, as well as radiology department ultrasound and/or surgery, was performed. Charts were reviewed for POCUS diagnoses, final diagnoses, and imaging time metrics.

RESULTS

A total of 120 patients met study criteria, with 12 cases of testicular torsion. The diagnostic accuracy of POCUS for testicular torsion is described in the summary table. For all causes of acute scrotum, point-of-care ultrasound agreed with final diagnosis in 70% (95% confidence interval [CI] 62-78%) of cases, and more experienced point-of-care ultrasound users displayed higher agreement with final diagnosis. Point-of-care ultrasound results were generated a median of 73 min (Q1 = 51, Q3 = 112) before radiology department ultrasound results.

DISCUSSION

Scrotal POCUS performed by pediatric emergency physicians appears to be an accurate tool to detect testicular torsion in children with acute scrotum and saves time compared with radiology ultrasound. The study results may not be generalizable to hospitals without a multidisciplinary POCUS system for quality assurance and image sharing. Future work on POCUS for acute scrotum should investigate its impact on patient outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and family satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

Point-of-care ultrasound by pediatric emergency physicians is accurate for detecting testicular torsion in children with acute scrotum and could expedite diagnosis of this time-sensitive condition.

Reliability of Neck Mass Point-of-Care Ultrasound by Pediatric Emergency Physicians

OBJECTIVES

Neck masses are a common reason for presentations to the pediatric emergency department (PED). We sought to determine the agreement and time difference between point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) imaging by pediatric emergency physicians compared to radiology department imaging for children with neck masses in the PED.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of patients aged 0 to 18 years presenting to our tertiary PED who received both POCUS by a pediatric emergency physician and radiology department imaging. Charts were reviewed for POCUS diagnoses, final diagnoses, and imaging time metrics.

RESULTS

Seventy-five patients met the study criteria. In 58 of 75 cases there was agreement between the POCUS diagnosis and final diagnosis (κ = 0.71; 95% confidence interval, 0.6-0.83). There was agreement in 25 of the 28 cases in which POCUS examinations were performed by PED physicians with fellowship training in POCUS (κ = 0.87; 95% confidence interval, 0.72-1.00). The results for POCUS were generated in a median of 115 minutes (interquartile range, 68-185 minutes) before radiology department imaging results.

CONCLUSIONS

Point-of-care ultrasound imaging by pediatric emergency physicians for children with neck masses is a promising new POCUS application that may be able to save time in the PED.

Point of care ultrasound is associated with decreased ED length of stay for symptomatic early pregnancy

INTRODUCTION

Emergency physicians (EP) can accurately rule out ectopic pregnancy with pelvic point of care ultrasound (PPOCUS). Multiple studies have suggested that PPOCUS may decrease length of stay (LOS) for emergency department (ED) patients presenting with early symptomatic pregnancy compared to comprehensive ultrasound (CUS). This systematic review and meta-analysis examines the association between the use of PPOCUS vs CUS and ED LOS.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was performed. Patients with symptomatic early pregnancy receiving EP-performed PPOCUS were compared to patients receiving CUS without PPOCUS. Keywords and search terms were generated for PPOCUS, ED LOS and CUS. Two independent reviewers screened abstracts for inclusion. A third reviewer was used when conflicts arose to gain consensus. Formal bias assessment was performed on included studies. Meta-analysis was carried out, pooling the mean differences between studies using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

2980 initial articles were screened, 32 articles underwent detailed review, 8 underwent bias assessment, and 6 were included in the final meta-analysis. There were 836 patients in the study group and 1514 in the control group. All studies showed a decreased LOS in the PPOCUS group with a mean decrease of 73.8 min (95% CI 49.1, 98.6). Two studies not included in the meta-analysis also showed significantly decreased LOS with PPOCUS.

CONCLUSION

Use of PPOCUS in the evaluation of patients with symptomatic early pregnancy is associated with decreased LOS in patients ultimately diagnosed with intrauterine pregnancy. This review suggests that this finding is generalizable to a variety of practice settings.

Effect of Emergency Physician-Performed Point-of-Care Ultrasound and Radiology Department-Performed Ultrasound Examinations on the Emergency Department Length of Stay Among Pregnant Women at Less Than 20 Weeks' Gestation

OBJECTIVES

We sought to confirm retrospective studies that measured an approximately 20% reduction in emergency department (ED) length of stay (LOS) in early-gestation pregnant women who receive emergency physician-performed point-of-care ultrasound (US) examinations rather than radiology department-performed US examinations for evaluation of intrauterine pregnancy (IUP).

METHODS

A randomized controlled clinical trial was performed at an urban academic safety net hospital and 2 Naval medical centers in the United States. The allocation was concealed before enrollment. Clinically stable adult pregnant women at less than 20 weeks' gestation who presented to the ED with abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding were randomized to receive a point-of-care or radiology US to assess for IUP. The primary outcome measure was the ED LOS.

RESULTS

A total of 224 patients (point-of-care US, n = 118; radiology US, n = 106) were included for the analysis. The ED LOS was 20 minutes shorter in the point-of-care US arm (95% confidence interval [CI], -54 to 7 minutes). Adjusting for variability due to the location, the ED LOS was calculated to be 31 minutes shorter (95% CI, -64 to 1 minute) than for patients in the radiology US arm. Excluding patients in the point-of-care US arm who crossed over to radiology US after an inconclusive point-of-care US examination, the ED LOS was 75 minutes shorter than in the radiology US arm (95% CI, -97 to -53 minutes).

CONCLUSIONS

Early-gestation pregnant ED patients requiring pelvic US were discharged earlier when point-of-care US was used rather than radiology US; however, this trial did not achieve our target of 30 minutes. Nevertheless, our data support the routine use of ED point-of-care US for IUP, saving the most time if a conclusive IUP is identified.

Emergency Department Patient Perceptions of Transvaginal Ultrasound for Complications of First-Trimester Pregnancy

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.

Critical care ultrasound: A national survey across specialties

PURPOSE

Management of the critically ill patient requires rapid assessment and differentiation. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) improves diagnostic accuracy and guides resuscitation. This study sought to describe the use of critical care related POCUS amongst different specialties.

METHODS

This study was conducted as an online 18-question survey. Survey questions queried respondent demographics, preferences for POCUS use, and barriers to implementation.

RESULTS

2735 recipients received and viewed the survey with 416 (15.2%) responses. The majority of respondents were pulmonary and critical care medicine (62.5%) and emergency medicine (19.9%) providers. Respondents obtained training through educational courses (26.5%), fellowship (23.9%), residency (21.6%), or self-guided learning (17.2%). POCUS use was common for diagnostic and procedural guidance. Emergency medicine providers were more likely to utilize POCUS to evaluate undifferentiated hypotension (98.5%, P < .001), volume status and fluid responsiveness (88.2%, P = .005), and cardiopulmonary arrest (94.1%, P < .001) compared to other specialties. Limited training, competency, or credentialing were the most common barriers, in up to 39.4% of respondents.

CONCLUSION

Study respondents utilize POCUS in a variety of clinical applications. However, a disparity in utilization still exists among clinicians who care for critically ill patients. Overcoming barriers, such as a lack of formalized training, competency, or credentialing, may lead to increased utilization.

Does Point-of-care Ultrasound Affect Patient and Caregiver Satisfaction for Children Presenting to the Pediatric Emergency Department?

OBJECTIVES

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) may facilitate the diagnosis and management of children for various conditions. Integration of POCUS into clinical care requires hands-on training; however, providers may be reluctant to perform educational ultrasounds to improve their skills, as it is a procedure without direct clinical benefit to the patient and due to concerns that it may lower a family's overall satisfaction. We sought to evaluate whether the use of POCUS changed overall patient/caregiver satisfaction in a pediatric emergency department (ED) visit.

METHODS

We performed a prospective cohort study of children presenting to a single children's hospital ED. We evaluated overall satisfaction for three groups: 1) children undergoing POCUS for educational purposes, 2) children undergoing POCUS for a specific diagnostic indication, and 3) controls who did not receive POCUS. Overall satisfaction was measured using a 100-point visual analog scale (VAS). We performed a noninferiority test between patients receiving POCUS and controls using a delta of 10 points to determine significance. We also examined satisfaction among patients receiving diagnostic ultrasound and sought to determine patient/caregiver satisfaction with specific elements of the POCUS experience.

RESULTS

We surveyed 159 patients who presented between April 2016 and August 2016 (53 in each group). The three groups did not differ with respect to patient age, sex, or Emergency Severity Index level. The median VAS scores for both the educational and the diagnostic POCUS groups (94 and 94, respectively) were not inferior to the VAS score for the control group (91) with a median (95% confidence interval [CI]) difference of 3.0 (-2.2 to 8.2) for educational and control groups and 3.0 (-1.6 to 7.6) for diagnostic and control groups. No patients/caregivers in the educational POCUS group would refuse an educational ultrasound during a future medical encounter.

CONCLUSION

Educational POCUS does not decrease patient/caregiver satisfaction among children presenting to the ED.

Utility of point-of-care musculoskeletal ultrasound in the evaluation of emergency department musculoskeletal pathology

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the utilization of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) for the assessment of emergency department (ED) patients with musculoskeletal symptoms and the impact of musculoskeletal POCUS on medical decision-making and patient management in the ED.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of ED patients presenting with musculoskeletal symptoms who received a POCUS over a 3.5-year period. An ED POCUS database was reviewed for musculoskeletal POCUS examinations used for medical decision-making. Electronic medical records were then reviewed for demographic characteristics, history, physical examination findings, ED course, additional imaging studies, and impact of musculoskeletal POCUS on patient management in ED.

RESULTS

A total of 264 subjects (92 females, 172 males) and 292 musculoskeletal POCUS examinations were included in the final analysis. Most common symptomatic sites were knee (31.8%) and ankle (16.3%). Joint effusion was the most common finding on musculoskeletal POCUS, noted in 33.7% of the patients, and subcutaneous edema/cobblestoning was found in 10.2% of the patients. Muscle or tendon rupture was found in 2.3% of the patients, and 1.9% of the patients had joint dislocation. Bursitis or bursa fluid was found in 3.4% of patients, and tendonitis/tendinopathy was found in 2.3%. Twenty percent of them were ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal procedures, and most of them (73.3%) were arthrocentesis. Of the included studies, all except three either changed or helped guide patient management as documented in the patients' medical records.

CONCLUSION

Our study findings illustrate the utility of POCUS in the evaluation of a variety of musculoskeletal pathologies in the ED.

Perception of point-of-care ultrasound performed by emergency medicine physicians

PURPOSE

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is integral to the practice of emergency medicine (EM). Furthermore, EM-performed POCUS (EM-POCUS) offers consultants the opportunity to avoid delays in care due to wait times for confirmatory imaging studies. This study is the first to describe the perception of POCUS to consulting services at a single institution where EM-POCUS is routinely performed.

METHODS

This study was conducted as a survey distributed to residents from consultant specialties (internal medicine [IM], general surgery [GS], and obstetrics and gynecology [OB-GYN]). Survey questions aimed to describe consultant's confidence and utilization of EM-POCUS. Responses were evaluated using descriptive and comparative analysis.

RESULTS

Survey responses were obtained from 27 IM (87.1%), 13 GS (100%), and 21 OB-GYN (100%) respondents. Among consultant specialties, 47.5% of respondents reported comfort with EM-POCUS. IM (81.5%) providers were significantly more likely to trust EM-POCUS as compared with OB-GYN (28.6%) and GS (7.7%) providers (p < 0.001). Confidence was further limited when consultants were unable to view POCUS images (23.8% for OB-GYN, 15.4% for GS, 55.6% for IM), but improved with EM provider level of POCUS experience and training (81% for OB-GYN, 76.9% for GS, 77.8% for IM). Overall, consultant utilization of EM-POCUS was 68.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

Study respondents demonstrated limited confidence and utilization of EM-POCUS in this institution. Increased understanding of EM-POCUS training and expanded image availability may improve consultant utilization. Future studies, performed nationally, should further describe the value of EM-POCUS to consultant services. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:408-415, 2017.

Pediatric emergency medicine point-of-care ultrasound: summary of the evidence

The utility of point-of-care ultrasound is well supported by the medical literature. Consequently, pediatric emergency medicine providers have embraced this technology in everyday practice. Recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics published a policy statement endorsing the use of point-of-care ultrasound by pediatric emergency medicine providers.  To date, there is no standard guideline for the practice of point-of-care ultrasound for this specialty. This document serves as an initial step in the detailed "how to" and description of individual point-of-care ultrasound examinations.  Pediatric emergency medicine providers should refer to this paper as reference for published research, objectives for learners, and standardized reporting guidelines.

Point-of-care ultrasound versus radiology department pelvic ultrasound on emergency department length of stay

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to compare the time to overall length of stay (LOS) for patients who underwent point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) versus radiology department ultrasound (RDUS).

METHODS

This was a prospective study on a convenience sample of patients who required pelvic ultrasound imaging as part of their emergency department (ED) assessment.

RESULTS

We enrolled a total of 194 patients who were on average 32 years-old. Ninety-eight (51%) patients were pregnant (<20 weeks). Time to completion of RDUS was 66 minutes longer than POCUS (95%CI 60-73, P<0.01). Patients randomized to the RDUS arm experienced a 120 minute longer ED length of stay (LOS) (95%CI 66-173, P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

In patients who require pelvic ultrasound as part of their diagnostic evaluation, POCUS resulted in a significant decrease in time to ultrasound and ED LOS.

Point-of-care ultrasonography by pediatric emergency physicians. Policy statement

Point-of-care ultrasonography is increasingly being used to facilitate accurate and timely diagnoses and to guide procedures. It is important for pediatric emergency physicians caring for patients in the emergency department to receive adequate and continued point-of-care ultrasonography training for those indications used in their practice setting. Emergency departments should have credentialing and quality assurance programs. Pediatric emergency medicine fellowships should provide appropriate training to physician trainees. Hospitals should provide privileges to physicians who demonstrate competency in point-of-care ultrasonography. Ongoing research will provide the necessary measures to define the optimal training and competency assessment standards. Requirements for credentialing and hospital privileges will vary and will be specific to individual departments and hospitals. As more physicians are trained and more research is completed, there should be one national standard for credentialing and privileging in point-of-care ultrasonography for pediatric emergency physicians.

BE-SAFE: Bedside sonography for assessment of the fetus in emergencies: educational intervention for late-pregnancy obstetric ultrasound

INTRODUCTION

Late obstetric emergencies are time critical presentations in the emergency department. Evaluation to ensure the safety of mother and child includes rapid assessment of fetal viability, fetal heart rate (FHR), fetal lie, and estimated gestational age (EGA). Point-of-care (POC) obstetric ultrasound (OBUS) offers the advantage of being able to provide all these measurements. We studied the impact of POC OBUS training on emergency physician (EP) confidence, knowledge, and OBUS skill performance on a live model.

METHODS

This is a prospective observational study evaluating an educational intervention we designed, called the BE-SAFE curriculum (BEdside Sonography for the Assessment of the Fetus in Emergencies). Subjects were a convenience sample of EP attendings (N=17) and residents (N=14). Prior to the educational intervention, participants completed a self-assessment survey on their confidence regarding OBUS, and took a pre-test to assess their baseline knowledge of OBUS. They then completed a 3-hour training session consisting of didactic and hands-on education in OBUS. After training, each subject's time and accuracy of performance of FHR, EGA, and fetal lie was recorded. Post-intervention knowledge tests and confidence surveys were administered. Results were compared with non-parametric t-tests.

RESULTS

Pre- and post-test knowledge assessment scores for previously untrained EPs improved from 65.7% [SD=20.8] to 90% [SD=8.2] (p<0.0007). Self-confidence on a scale of 1-6 improved significantly for identification of FHR, fetal lie, and EGA. After training, the average times for completion of OBUS critical skills were as follows: cardiac activity (9s), FHR (68.6s), fetal lie (28.1s), and EGA (158.1 sec). EGA estimates averaged 28w0d (25w0d-30w6d) for the model's true gestational age of 27w0d.

CONCLUSION

After a focused POC OBUS training intervention, the BE-SAFE educational intervention, EPs can accurately and rapidly use ultrasound to determine FHR, fetal lie, and estimate gestational age in mid-late pregnancy.

Diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of emergency department targeted ultrasonography in the evaluation of first-trimester pelvic pain and bleeding: a systematic review

Objective:

Emergency department targeted ultrasonography (EDTU) offers the possibility of rapid exclusion of ectopic pregnancy in patients with first-trimester pelvic pain or bleeding. We sought to systematically review the evidence describing the diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of EDTU in the first trimester of pregnancy, and to generate a pooled estimate of the sensitivity and specificity of EDTU for the detection of intrauterine pregnancy (IUP).

Methods:

The literature search, abstract review and study selection were performed using predefined criteria. We abstracted the sensitivity and specificity of EDTU for IUP from included studies, and evaluated and summarized the evidence assessing the effect of EDTU use on time to diagnosis, time to treatment of ectopic pregnancy, emergency department (ED) length of stay and health care costs.

Results:

The specificity of EDTU for IUP in most studies exceeds 98%. The sensitivity in most studies exceeds 90%. Pooled estimates were not calculated because of statistical heterogeneity between studies. Published evidence indicates that EDTU use reduces the frequency of missed ectopic pregnancies, decreases time to surgery for ectopic pregnancy, shortens the length of stay for patients with normal pregnancies and may be more cost-effective than diagnostic strategies requiring formal ultrasonography.

Conclusion:

EDTU is highly specific for the identification of IUP. Patients who have an IUP identified with EDTU may be safely discharged from the ED with outpatient follow-up. The specificity of EDTU for IUP, along with the potential improvements in patient care that EDTU affords, justifies its adoption as routine ED care in evaluating first-trimester pain or bleeding.

Point-of-care ultrasonography by pediatric emergency medicine physicians

Emergency physicians have used point-of-care ultrasonography since the 1990 s. Pediatric emergency medicine physicians have more recently adopted this technology. Point-of-care ultrasonography is used for various scenarios, particularly the evaluation of soft tissue infections or blunt abdominal trauma and procedural guidance. To date, there are no published statements from national organizations specifically for pediatric emergency physicians describing the incorporation of point-of-care ultrasonography into their practice. This document outlines how pediatric emergency departments may establish a formal point-of-care ultrasonography program. This task includes appointing leaders with expertise in point-of-care ultrasonography, effectively training and credentialing physicians in the department, and providing ongoing quality assurance reviews.

Point-of-care ultrasonography adoption in Canada: using diffusion theory and the Evaluation Tool for Ultrasound skills Development and Education (ETUDE)

Objective:

Point-of-care ultrasonography (PoCUS) first appeared in the 1980s in North America, but the extent of the diffusion of its adoption is unknown. We characterized early PoCUS adoption by emergency physicians in Canada and its barriers to use using Rogers' diffusion of innovations theory.

Methods:

We developed a questionnaire based on a pilot study and literature review to assess past, current, and potential use of PoCUS and potential barriers to adoption. A Dillman technique for electronic surveys was used for dissemination. Using Rogers' diffusion of innovations theory, we developed and validated the Evaluation Tool for Ultrasound skills Development and Education (ETUDE). ETUDE scores allowed categorization of respondents into innovators, early adopters, majority, and nonadopters. Descriptive statistics, correlations, and x2statistics were used to analyze the data.

Results:

The 296 respondents (36.4% of 814 surveyed) had a median age of 40 and were 72.5% male. Adoption scores using ETUDE revealed nonadopters (18.8%), majority (28.7%), early adopters (34.5%), and innovators (18.0%). Respondents endorsed “always” using PoCUS currently and in the future for focused assessment with sonography in trauma (FAST) (current 41.8%/future 88.4%), first trimester pregnancy (current 23.3%/future 73.7%), suspected abdominal aortic aneurysm (current 32.7%/future 92.6%), basic cardiac indications (current 30.7%/future 87.5%), and central venous catheterization (current 17.0%/future 80.3%). Several barriers to PoCUS were identified for part-time emergency physicians and those working in inner-city/urban/suburban settings.

Conclusion:

This is the first study to determine the state of adoption and barriers to the introduction of PoCUS in Canadian emergency medicine practice. The novel validated ETUDE instrument should be used to evaluate the uptake of PoCUS over time.

The utility of transvaginal ultrasound in the ED evaluation of complications of first trimester pregnancy

BACKGROUND

For patients with early intrauterine pregnancy (IUP), the sonographic signs of the gestation may be below the resolution of transabdominal ultrasound (TAU); however, it may be identified by transvaginal ultrasound (TVU). We sought to determine how often TVU performed in the emergency department (ED) reveals a viable IUP after a nondiagnostic ED TAU and the impact of ED TVU on patient length of stay (LOS).

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of women presenting to our ED with complications of early pregnancy from January 1, 2007 to February 28, 2009 in a single urban adult ED. Abstractors recorded clinical and imaging data in a database. Patient imaging modality and results were recorded and compared with respect to ultrasound (US) findings and LOS.

RESULTS

Of 2429 subjects identified, 795 required TVU as part of their care. Emergency department TVU was performed in 528 patients, and 267 went to radiology (RAD). Emergency department TVU identified a viable IUP in 261 patients (49.6%). Patients having initial ED US had shorter LOS than patients with initial RAD US (median 4.0 vs 6.0 hours; P < .001). Emergency department LOS was shorter for women who had ED TVU performed compared with those sent for RAD TVU regardless of the findings of the US (median 4.9 vs 6.7 hours; P < .001). There was no increased LOS for patients who needed further RAD US after an indeterminate ED TVU (7.0 vs 7.1 hours; P = .43). There was no difference in LOS for those who had a viable IUP confirmed on ED TAU vs ED (median 3.1 vs 3.2 hours, respectively; P < .32).

CONCLUSION

When an ED TVU was performed, a viable IUP was detected 49.6% of the time. Emergency department LOS was significantly shorter for women who received ED TVU after indeterminate ED TAU compared with those sent to RAD for TVU, with more marked time savings among those with live IUP diagnosed on ED TVU. For patients who do not receive a definitive diagnosis of IUP on ED TVU, this approach does not result in increased LOS.

Assessment of emergency physician-performed ultrasound in evaluating nonspecific abdominal pain

STUDY OBJECTIVE

The objective of this pilot study was to lay the groundwork for future studies assessing the impact of emergency physician-performed ultrasound (EPUS) on diagnostic testing and decision making in emergency department (ED) patients with nonspecific abdominal pain (NSAP).

METHODS

This was a prospective, noninterventional study using a consecutive sample of patients presenting to the ED with NSAP as determined by nursing triage when a participating physician was available. Nonspecific abdominal pain was defined as abdominal pain for which the patient was seeking evaluation without a presumed diagnosis or referral for specific evaluation. Patients were evaluated by a physician who documented their differential diagnosis and planned diagnostic workup. Then, the physician performed EPUS, recorded their findings, and documented their post-EPUS differential diagnosis and planned diagnostic workup. This was compared with the patient's final diagnosis as determined by 2 emergency physicians blinded to the EPUS results.

RESULTS

A total of 128 patients were enrolled. Fifty-eight (45%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 36%-54%) had an improvement in diagnostic accuracy and planned diagnostic workup using EPUS. Sixty-four (50%; 95% CI, 41%-59%) would have been treated without further radiographic imaging. Fifty (39%; 95% CI, 31%-48%) would have been treated without any further laboratory testing or imaging.

DISCUSSION

Based on our findings, a future trial of 164 consecutive patients would have 90% power to confirm a 25% reduction in testing and a 25% improvement in decision making.

CONCLUSION

Emergency physician-performed ultrasound appears to positively impact decision making and diagnostic workup for patients presenting to the ED with NSAP and should be studied further.

Use of ultrasound for non-trauma patients in the emergency department

OBJECTIVE

In the past decade, there has been substantial knowledge translation in the use of ultrasound (US) by critical care physicians to aid diagnosis of the non-trauma patient. This study aimed to determine emergency doctors' level of training in ultrasonography, pattern of US use in regular practice and barriers to US use for the non-trauma patient presenting to an emergency department.

METHOD

A survey on the use of US in non-trauma patients was conducted, targeting all emergency physicians and emergency medicine trainees in a single adult tertiary referral centre.

RESULTS

The response rate was 92.7% with 38 completed surveys analysed. A course in non-trauma US had been completed by 58% of respondents. The most common non-trauma formal US training was in vascular access (82%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 66.8-90.6), detection of abdominal aortic aneurysm (79%, 95% CI 63.7-88.9) and pericardial fluid (84%, 95% CI 69.6-92.6). Upon completion of formal training, US was used significantly more frequently for obtaining vascular access (odds ratio [OR] 12.0), detection of abdominal aortic aneurysms (OR 4.3) and detection of pericardial fluid (OR 15.5). Most doctors felt the greatest barriers to the use of US in the non-trauma patient were the lack of teaching, confidence in findings, experienced supervisors and time.

CONCLUSIONS

Among ED personnel, use of US to diagnose several non-traumatic conditions was low, but specific training was associated with significantly more US use. Increased training and availability of US-experienced supervisors might further improve utility of this important adjunct to the practice of emergency medicine.

Does the use of bedside pelvic ultrasound decrease length of stay in the emergency department?

OBJECTIVES

Diagnostic ultrasounds by emergency medicine (EM) and pediatric emergency medicine (PEM) physicians have increased because of ultrasonography training during residency and fellowship. The availability of ultrasound in radiology departments is limited or difficult to obtain especially during nighttime hours. Studies have shown that EM physicians can accurately perform goal-directed ultrasound after appropriate training. The goal of this study was to compare the length of stay for patients receiving an ultrasound to confirm intrauterine pregnancies. The hypothesis of this study is that a bedside ultrasound by a trained EM/PEM physician can reduce length of stay in the emergency department (ED) by 1 hour.

METHODS

This was a case cohort retrospective review for patients aged 13 to 21 years who received pelvic ultrasounds in the ED during 2007. Each patient was placed into 1 of 2 groups. Group 1 received bedside ultrasounds done by institutionally credentialed EM/PEM attending physicians. Group 2 received radiology department ultrasound only. Each group had subanalysis done including chief complaint, time of presentation, time to completion of ultrasound, length of stay, diagnosis, and disposition. Daytime was defined as presentation between 7 AM and 9 PM when radiology ultrasound technologists were routinely available.

RESULTS

We studied 330 patients, with 244 patients (74%) in the bedside ultrasound group. The demographics of both groups showed no difference in age, presenting complaints, discharge diagnoses, and ultimate disposition. Group 1 had a significant reduction (P < 0.001) in time to complete the ultrasound compared with group 2 (mean, 82 minutes [range, 1-901 minutes] vs 149 minutes [range, 7-506 minutes]) and length of stay (142 [16-2268] vs. 230 [16-844]). Of those presenting during the day (66%), group 1 showed a significant reduction in length of stay (P < 0.001) compared with group 2 (220 [21-951] vs 357 [156-844]). Of those who presented at night (34%), group 1 showed a significant reduction in length of stay (P < 0.002) compared with group 2 (270 [16-2268] vs. 326 [127-691]).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of ED bedside ultrasound by trained EM/PEM physicians produced a significant reduction in length of stay in the ED, regardless of radiology ultrasound technologist availability.

A survey of emergency physician-performed ultrasound: implications for academic radiology departments

A survey of academic radiology departments shows that the prevalence of emergency room physician-performed ultrasound examinations is high and that providing a 24/7 attending radiology service leads to no significant reduction in physician activity.

Implementation of transvaginal ultrasound in an emergency department residency program: an analysis of resident interpretation

BACKGROUND

Emergency physicians are increasingly performing transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) to rule out ectopic pregnancy. However, little is known about appropriate educational pathways to train emergency medicine residents in TVUS.

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the ability of Emergency Medicine (EM) residents who underwent a training program in TVUS to detect the presence or absence of an intrauterine pregnancy (IUP) in patients of < 13 weeks gestation with vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain, as compared to the final interpretation of each study as determined by the Emergency Department (ED) Director of Ultrasound.

METHODS

This was a prospective, observational study in a single residency program. Training included a lecture, competency examination, and 10 supervised TVUSs. The EM residents then performed TVUSs with the goal of determining the presence or absence of an IUP without input from an attending physician. Correlation with the ED Director of Ultrasound was assessed for the cohort, and stratified by year of training.

RESULTS

There were 22 residents who performed 75 TVUSs over 17 months. Correlation with the ED Director of Ultrasound was 93.3%. Differences in correlation with the ED Director of Ultrasound were noted when compared by year of training: post-graduate year (PGY)-3 (93.3%), PGY-2 (92.1%), and PGY-1 (100%); p < 0.001.

CONCLUSION

Residents were able to perform TVUSs to determine the presence or absence of an IUP in patients in whom the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy was being considered with a high degree of correlation with the ED Director of Ultrasound after a brief training program. Correlation with the ED director of ultrasound was influenced by year of training.

Bedside ultrasound in the diagnosis of pediatric clavicle fractures

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of pediatric emergency physicians in diagnosing clavicle fractures by bedside ultrasound (US).

METHODS

This was a prospective study of pediatric emergency department (ED) patients with suspected clavicle fractures conducted in a tertiary-care, freestanding pediatric hospital. A convenience sample of patients younger than 17 years underwent bedside US for detection of clavicle fracture by pediatric emergency physicians with limited US training. Ultrasound findings were compared with standard radiographs, which were considered the criterion standard. Pain scores using the validated color analog scale (0-10) were determined before and during US. Total length of stay in the ED, time to US, and time to radiograph were recorded.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight patients were enrolled, of which 39 (67%) had fracture determined by radiograph. Ultrasound interpretation gave a sensitivity of 89.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 75.8%-97.1%) and specificity of 89.5% (95% CI, 66.9%-98.7%). Positive and negative predictive values were 94.6% (95% CI, 81.8%-99.3%) and 81.0% (95% CI, 58.1%-94.5%), respectively. Positive and negative likelihood ratios were 8.33 and 0.11, respectively. Pain scores averaged 4.7 before US and 5.2 during US (P = 0.204). There was a statistically significant difference between mean time to US (76 minutes) and mean time to radiograph (107 minutes) (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric emergency physicians with minimal formal training can accurately diagnose clavicle fractures by US. In addition, US itself is not associated with an increase in pain and may reduce length of stay in the ED.

Use of a β-hCG discriminatory zone with bedside pelvic ultrasonography

STUDY OBJECTIVE

We seek to assess the performance of the β human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) "discriminatory zone" when using bedside pelvic ultrasonography in the evaluation of symptomatic pregnant emergency department (ED) patients.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study of bedside pelvic ultrasonography performed on consecutive pregnant patients in the first trimester who presented to the ED with abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding. Patients received pelvic ultrasonography, serum β-hCG testing, and blinded formal radiologic ultrasonography. All patients were followed for 8 weeks to determine outcomes. The sensitivity and specificity of a discriminatory β-hCG level of 3,000 mIU/mL for the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy were calculated for patients without an intrauterine pregnancy visualized by bedside ultrasonography.

RESULTS

Thirty-six faculty physicians performed bedside pelvic ultrasonography on 256 patients. There were 161 cases with a confirmed visualizable intrauterine pregnancy and 29 ectopic pregnancies. Bedside ultrasonography identified 115 intrauterine pregnancies. The range of β-hCG for cases of confirmed visualizable intrauterine pregnancy with a nondiagnostic bedside ultrasonography was 15 mIU/mL to 123,368 mIU/mL (median 6,633; interquartile range 1,551 to 32,699). For patients with nondiagnostic bedside ultrasonography, using a discriminatory β-hCG level of 3,000 mIU/mL to further assess for ectopic pregnancy showed sensitivity of 35% (95% confidence interval [CI] 18% to 54%) and specificity of 58% (95% CI 48% to 67%). Finally, the overall sensitivity of bedside pelvic ultrasonography for the detection of intrauterine pregnancy was 71% (95% CI 63% to 78%), and the specificity was 99% (95% CI 94% to 100%).

CONCLUSION

When bedside pelvic ultrasonography does not demonstrate an intrauterine pregnancy, serum β-hCG level is not helpful in differentiating intrauterine from ectopic pregnancy in symptomatic ED patients.

How long does it take to perform emergency ultrasound for the primary indications?

Purpose

Although emergency ultrasound (EU) is gaining popularity, EU is performed in a minority of emergency departments (EDs). The perception may exist that EU is too time-consuming. This study sought to determine the duration of EUs performed for the primary indications by staff emergency physicians (EPs).

Methods

A prospective, time–motion study was conducted on a convenience sample of EUs at the Sudbury Regional Hospital ED from June to August 2006. All EPs had Canadian EU certification. A research assistant timed EUs. Primary EU indications in Canada are: cardiac arrest evaluation, rule-out pericardial effusion, rule-out intraperitoneal free fluid in trauma, rule-out abdominal aortic aneurysm, and rule-in intrauterine pregnancy. Descriptive statistics are reported.

Results

Eleven EPs performed 66 EUs for the primary indications on 51 patients. The mean EU duration was 137.8 s (range 11–465; CI 123.0–162.6). There was no difference in the duration of EUs performed by the two most experienced EPs (n = 37; duration = 129.4; CI = 96.4–162.4) compared to the other EPs (n = 29; duration = 148.4; CI = 110.6–186.2). Although subgroups were small, positive (n = 8; duration = 199.4; CI = 97.4–301.4), negative (n = 49; duration = 123.3; CI = 97.9–148.7), and indeterminate (n = 9; duration = 161.6; CI = 91.5–231.7) EUs did not differ in duration. There is some suggestion of differences in duration between types of EU, although again the subgroups were small: cardiac (n = 21; duration = 90.3; CI = 62.6–118.0), abdominal (n = 22; duration = 157.1; CI = 111.9–202.3), aneurysm (n = 15; duration = 170.1; CI = 117.5–222.7), transabdominal pelvic (n = 5; duration = 89.8; CI = 40.3–139.1), transvaginal (n = 3; duration = 246.0; CI = 30.6–461.4).

Conclusion

When performed by staff EPs with EU certification, mean EU duration for the primary indications was brief regardless of EP’s experience, EU type, or results.