Improved patient management with point-of-care ultrasound

Abstract

Point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) is an examination often performed at the bedside that can assist in patient assessment and answer focused questions. It is increasingly used by a number of specialties to aid invasive procedures and for clinical evaluation, with the ultimate aim of improving patient management. Although there is a paucity of robust evidence supporting some applications, it is gaining popularity and has been termed the ‘new stethoscope’. Good clinical governance arrangements, especially with regard to training and competency, are key to this modality developing further and safely.