Optimising POCUS programs: A summary of EMUG's recommendations for the development and maintenance of ED POCUS...

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medicine
• Medical Ultrasound
• Healthcare Program Development

Background:

• Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is widely used in emergency departments (EDs) and medical practice.
• Significant variation exists in POCUS training and implementation across institutions and specialties.
• Inconsistent practices pose risks of patient harm and hinder the effective use of this valuable diagnostic tool.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a comprehensive statement guiding the creation and maintenance of robust POCUS programs in EDs.
• To address the need for standardized POCUS practices and training.
• To mitigate risks associated with POCUS use and support its clinical utility.

Main Methods:

• A literature search of current best practices and institutional guidelines for POCUS programs was conducted.
• International POCUS guidelines were gathered from various specialties and countries.
• Recommendations were formulated based on literature, group discussions (Collab-labs), and identified obstacles, then reviewed by experts.

Main Results:

• Recommendations for establishing and maintaining POCUS programs were organized into five key pillars.
• The five pillars include: Infrastructure, Governance, Administration, Education, and Quality.
• These pillars provide a structured framework for developing comprehensive POCUS initiatives.

Conclusions:

• The developed recommendations aim to complement existing guidelines and support POCUS program development.
• Implementing a robust ED POCUS program enhances patient safety, ensures standardized high-quality care, and improves patient outcomes.
• The initiative seeks to promote consistency in POCUS education, training, and credentialing across Australia and New Zealand.