Point-of-Care Ultrasound in the Intensive Care Unit

Spreading beyond the realm of tertiary academic medical centers, point-of-care ultrasound in the intensive care unit is an important diagnostic tool. The real-time feedback garnered can lead to critical and clinically relevant changes in management and decrease potential complications. Bedside ultrasound evaluation in the intensive care setting with a small, portable equipment is well-suited for placement of central lines, lumbar puncture, thoracentesis or other bedside ICU procedures and in the evaluation of cardiac activity, pleural and abdominal cavity and the overall fluid volume. Formalized curriculums centering on point-of-care ultrasound are emerging that will enhance its applicability and relevance.