Exploring Novel Applications of Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) in the Evaluation of Non-Traumatic Emergencies: Implications for Clinical Decision-Making

Al-Zahrani, Ahmed Saleh; Al-Ghamdi, Abdullah Saeed; Al-Ahmari, Faisal Omair; Alhowaiti, Hamed Slamah Hmmad; Alshehri, Abdullah Ali Abdullah; Alshehri, Hassan Ali; Shaman, Mohammed Ahmad Suwailem; ALQARNI, ALI RAFAA  ZAFER; Alhowaiti, Rashed Saad Hammad; Alanazi, Abdulkarim Hameed; ALSHAHRANI, HASSAN HAMAD HASSAN; Bedaiwi, Majed Abdulaziz

doi:10.21608/jmals.2024.426258

Exploring Novel Applications of Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) in the Evaluation of Non-Traumatic Emergencies: Implications for Clinical Decision-Making

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Ministry of Defense, Saudi Arabia

10.21608/jmals.2024.426258

Abstract

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is also an equally game-changing technology in emergency medicine that offers direct diagnostic potential to maximize clinical decision-making, particularly in non-trauma emergencies. This review brings forward the expanding role of POCUS in prehospital and emergency health care settings in terms of its effectiveness in hypotension states of undifferentiated conditions, respiratory distress, and cardiac arrest. Implementation of POCUS in emergency medical services (EMS) has been driven by the development of portable technology, enabling real-time assessment that guides triage, treatment, and resource allocation. However, adoption is hampered by issues like variability in provider education, absence of established competency models, and logistical challenges like device cost and environmental considerations. Current evidence suggests that simulation-based, structured training programs can equip EMS practitioners, ranging from paramedics to physicians, with competency in focused protocols like the Extended Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (eFAST), Rapid Ultrasound in Shock (RUSH), and Bedside Lung Ultrasound in Emergency (BLUE). Despite promising outcomes, such as reduced diagnostic uncertainty and patient satisfaction, gaps persist in quality assurance measures and long-term retention of skills. This review underscores the need for context-dependent implementation strategies, robust educational curricula, and interprofessional collaboration to bridge practice gaps and optimize POCUS utilization. Further research is necessary to establish its impact on patient outcomes and create evidence-based guidelines for prehospital deployment. As POCUS continues to grow, finding the balance between innovation and standardized training, and equitable resource distribution will be the key to unleashing its full potential in diverse EMS systems.

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