Mapping the Quality and Standardization of Methodological Reports in POCUS Research: A Scoping Review Protocol

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Clinical Ultrasound
• Evidence Synthesis

Background:

• Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) is vital for rapid clinical decision-making.
• Heterogeneity in reporting POCUS methods (protocols, operator skills, equipment) limits study comparability and reproducibility.
• Lack of standardization hinders POCUS integration into guidelines and training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To map and critically analyze methodological reporting in POCUS studies.
• To assess the standardization, quality, and reproducibility of reported POCUS procedures.
• To identify gaps and inconsistencies in POCUS research methodology.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive scoping review following JBI guidelines and PRISMA-ScR checklist.
• Extensive database searches (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, etc.) with no language or date restrictions.
• Independent screening and data extraction by two reviewers, using a standardized form adapted from JBI, focusing on the I-AIM framework.

Main Results:

• Identified significant variability and inconsistencies in the methodological reporting of POCUS studies.
• Highlighted a lack of consistent adherence to existing reporting frameworks like I-AIM.
• Revealed critical gaps in the description of POCUS protocols, operator qualifications, and equipment details.

Conclusions:

• The variability in POCUS literature necessitates more uniform reporting standards.
• Findings will inform best practices for POCUS study reporting, enhancing methodological rigor.
• Improved standardization will support the safe and effective clinical application of POCUS.