Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 28, 2025

Author Spotlight: Developing a Bedside Protocol for Kidney and Genitourinary Ultrasonography
Published on: June 21, 2024
A Blueprint for an Integrated Point-of-Care Ultrasound Curriculum for Nephrology Trainees
Abhilash Koratala1, Olanrewaju A Olaoye2, Bhavna Bhasin-Chhabra1
1Division of Nephrology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) offers valuable applications in nephrology, aiding in diagnosing conditions and assessing patient status. This article outlines a curriculum blueprint to integrate POCUS training into nephrology fellowship programs.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Medical Education
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) is increasingly recognized for its utility in clinical practice.
- Despite established applications in nephrology, POCUS training is not standardized in fellowship curricula.
- Variability exists in the sonographic applications taught across different nephrology fellowship programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a roadmap for nephrology programs seeking to establish a POCUS program.
- To detail essential components for a POCUS curriculum, including organization, applications, and assessment.
- To share institutional experiences and resources for POCUS implementation in nephrology.
Main Methods:
- Development of a POCUS curriculum based on institutional experience.
- Inclusion of basic organization, specific nephrology applications, and online resources.
- Discussion of POCUS workflow, billing, and quality assessment strategies.
- Sharing of evaluation forms and sample documentation for program implementation.
Main Results:
- A comprehensive POCUS curriculum framework is presented, covering key areas for nephrology fellows.
- Practical guidance on integrating POCUS into daily nephrology practice is provided.
- The article offers a blueprint adaptable for various nephrology fellowship programs.
Conclusions:
- Standardized POCUS training is crucial for enhancing nephrology practice and patient care.
- Further support from nephrology societies is needed to drive universal adoption of POCUS curricula.
- Implementation of this roadmap can facilitate the integration of POCUS into nephrology fellowship training.
Related Concept Videos
Imaging Studies II: Ultrasonography
Ultrasound I: Abdominal Ultrasonography
Abdominal ultrasonography, commonly known as abdominal ultrasound, is a vital, non-invasive medical imaging technique widely used in healthcare.
Procedure:
This diagnostic tool allows the clinician to visually inspect internal structures within the abdomen, including vital organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, and spleen.
The abdominal ultrasound process begins with applying a special gel to the patient's skin over the abdomen. This gel enhances the...
Imaging Studies I: Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder Studies
Acute Kidney Injury V: Interprofessional Care
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention
Ultrasound II: Endoscopic Ultrasound and FibroScan
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS):

