Barriers To Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Use In Nurse Anesthesiologists: A Preliminary Survey

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Medical Ultrasound
• Nursing Practice

Background:

• Point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) is an emerging tool for healthcare professionals.
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) may use POCUS to enhance physical assessments.
• The adoption rates and obstacles for POCUS use among CRNAs are not well-documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of POCUS utilization by CRNAs in the United States.
• To identify barriers hindering POCUS implementation in nurse anesthesiology practice.
• To understand the training preferences of CRNAs regarding POCUS.

Main Methods:

• A quantitative survey was distributed to 2,648 CRNAs nationwide.
• Data collected focused on POCUS usage, perceived benefits, and identified barriers.
• Statistical analysis was performed on the survey responses.

Main Results:

• 11.9% of surveyed CRNAs reported actively using POCUS.
• A significant majority (90.5%) recognized POCUS as beneficial for their practice.
• The primary barrier identified was the need for enhanced POCUS education and training.

Conclusions:

• POCUS holds significant potential for CRNA practice, with widespread perceived benefits.
• Lack of comprehensive education and training represents the most substantial barrier to POCUS adoption.
• Facility support, equipment availability, and perceived clinical necessity also impede POCUS implementation.
• Effective POCUS integration is often facilitated by in-person didactic and hands-on training experiences.