The Utility of Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) in the Emergency Department: A Systematic Review
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Abstract
Point-of-Care Ultrasonography (POCUS) has increasingly become a pivotal tool in emergency medicine, offering significant improvements in diagnostic accuracy and patient care. This systematic review aims to evaluate the utility of POCUS in emergency settings, focusing on its impact on diagnostic accuracy, patient management, and the implications of POCUS training for emergency medicine residents. Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search across major databases, primarily PubMed, was conducted in November 2023. The review included clinical trials, observational studies, and controlled clinical trials, focusing on the utility of POCUS in emergency departments. Out of 305 articles identified, 8 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. The review encompassed diverse studies with a total of 1203 participants, demonstrating the effectiveness of POCUS in various emergency scenarios. Key findings include the improvement of diagnostic accuracy for conditions like acute dyspnea and Acute Decompensated Heart Failure (ADHF), the utility of POCUS in pediatric emergency care, and its role in ocular emergencies. POCUS was also found to influence patient care decisions significantly, changing diagnostic impressions and management plans. Additionally, POCUS training for emergency medicine residents led to increased ultrasound usage and improved patient management efficiency. POCUS has emerged as a transformative tool in emergency medicine, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, guiding clinical decision-making, and improving patient care outcomes. Its applications range from general emergency scenarios to specialized pediatric and ocular emergencies. The integration of POCUS training in emergency medicine residency programs is crucial for harnessing its full potential. As technology advances, POCUS is poised to continue revolutionizing patient care in emergency settings, affirming its indispensable role in modern medical practice.
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