Introduction:Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is essential for maintaining and enhancing the clinical competencies of sonographers. Despite its mandatory nature, factors influencing CPD participation among general sonographers in Australia remain underexplored. Aim:This study aimed to explore general sonographers' perceptions of their CPD learning needs and to identify the barriers and facilitators influencing their CPD participation. Methods:A two-phase descriptive study was conducted. Phase one involved a scoping literature review on CPD barriers and facilitators among health professionals, guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute Population (or Participants), Concept, and Context (JBI PCC) framework. Phase two involved a cross sectional online survey of Australian general sonographers, utilising mixed methods to capture quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative data were analysed thematically. Results:A total of 233 general sonographers commenced the survey, of whom 126 completed it. Sonographers strongly recognised the importance of CPD, with technical CPD rated as more beneficial and relevant than non-technical CPD. Specialised webinars, workshops, conferences and case reviews were highly valued. Preferred delivery methods included small group in-person workshops and on-the-job training. Major barriers included financial costs, time constraints, workload and personal commitments. Facilitators included flexible access, employer support and relevance of CPD content. Discussion:Sonographers prioritised skill-based, flexible and practical CPD formats but faced persistent financial and time-related barriers. Organisational support and targeted CPD delivery methods could significantly improve participation. Conclusion:Sonographers value CPD but face participation barriers; greater employer support and flexible delivery can improve engagement and professional development.
Introduction:Sonographers frequently deliver first-trimester ultrasound findings, including early pregnancy loss, yet there is limited structured communication training within traditional sonography education. Most learning occurs informally, leaving sonographers underprepared for one of the most emotionally challenging aspects of their role. This study describes the development of a simulation-based communication training program for sonographers performing first-trimester ultrasound within an Australian tertiary health network. Methods:A simulation session was designed in collaboration with a hospital-based simulation faculty. Six trainee sonographers participated in a one-day simulation workshop facilitated by senior sonographers and simulation faculty. Prior to the session, the participants completed pre-readings, attended a preparatory tutorial and watched a recorded demonstration video. The simulation session incorporated three simulated first-trimester clinical scenarios and live interactions with a simulated parent (actor). Participants completed pre- and post-simulation surveys assessing confidence across six communication domains, including explaining findings, managing uncertainty, using clear language, and responding empathetically to parent emotions. Results:Confidence improved across all domains following participation. The largest gains were observed in communicating uncertain results and responding empathetically to emotional responses. Participants described the simulation as realistic, emotionally impactful, and valuable in preparing for clinical practice. Debriefing was identified as a key learning component, supporting reflection on language, communication strategies, and parent-centred communication, including interactions with both the pregnant parent and their support person when present. Conclusion:This program addresses a gap in sonographer education by providing structured, experiential training for first-trimester ultrasound communication. Early findings demonstrate strong feasibility, acceptability, and perceived impact on preparedness for clinical conversations. These results support further development and broader implementation of simulation-based communication training in diagnostic imaging.
Background:The standard test to diagnose vocal cord palsy in adults is laryngoscopy, which is invasive, whereas laryngeal ultrasound (LUS) is an alternative, non-invasive method. We conducted a systematic review to determine the accuracy of LUS in diagnosing VCP in adults. Methods:PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL and Cochrane databases were searched in September 2025. We used a bivariate mixed-effects regression model to conduct a meta-analysis using Stata 18.0 software. We used the QUADAS-2 tool to assess the risk of bias and GRADE guidelines to assess the certainty of evidence. Results:We included 41 studies (7818 patients) in the meta-analysis. A total of 27 studies were performed in patients undergoing thyroid surgeries. The remaining 14 studies involved patients undergoing oesophageal surgery or routine laryngeal assessment or mediastinal surgeries. In 28 studies, blinding of at least one investigator was achieved. The pooled sensitivity of LUS for diagnosing VCP was 0.90 (95% CI: 0.85-0.93), with a specificity of 0.98 (95% CI: 0.97-0.99). The positive likelihood ratio (LR+) was 47.8 (95% CI 26.8-85.3) and the negative likelihood ratio (LR-) was 0.10 (95% CI 0.07-0.16). The AUC for LUS was 0.98 (95% CI: 0.97-0.99). Certainty of evidence was graded as moderate in view of heterogeneity and the possibility of publication bias and lack of blinding in nearly 35% of the studies. Conclusions:Laryngeal ultrasound may be a useful tool to diagnose VCP in adults. Additional high-quality studies meeting the stringent QUADAS-2 guidelines are needed to confirm these findings.
Background:Ultrasound remains one of the most widely used imaging modalities in clinical practice; however, its effectiveness is highly dependent on operator expertise. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, computer vision and machine learning have accelerated the development of autonomous ultrasound systems capable of performing imaging tasks with minimal human intervention. Objective:This commentary examines recent developments in autonomous ultrasound technology and evaluates its potential to transform diagnostic imaging through self-directed image acquisition, adaptive robotic control and AI-assisted decision-making. Main Discussion:Emerging research demonstrates significant progress in autonomous ultrasound applications across thyroid imaging, cardiac imaging, vascular assessment and intraoperative guidance. Robotic systems integrated with deep learning algorithms have shown the ability to autonomously identify anatomical structures, optimize scanning trajectories, adjust probe positioning in real time and acquire diagnostically relevant images. These advances may improve imaging standardisation, reduce operator variability and expand access to ultrasound services in underserved regions. Furthermore, intelligent robotic sonographers utilising reinforcement learning represent a new generation of adaptive imaging systems capable of continuous performance improvement. Despite these promising developments, important challenges remain, including anatomical variability, clinical validation, reliability across diverse patient populations, regulatory approval, ethical considerations and accountability in AI-assisted health care. Conclusion:Autonomous ultrasound systems are rapidly evolving from experimental prototypes to clinically relevant technologies. Although further validation and regulatory oversight are required before widespread implementation, current evidence suggests that AI-powered robotic ultrasound has the potential to enhance imaging consistency, improve accessibility and redefine the future role of imaging professionals within increasingly intelligent diagnostic ecosystems.
Introduction:Cardiac tamponade is a life-threatening condition requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment, with pericardiocentesis being the mainstay of management. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is useful in the diagnosis and management of cardiac tamponade, particularly in rural and regional settings without specialist or critical care support services. Case Presentation:We present an 88-year-old male who presented with cardiac tamponade. He was diagnosed and treated promptly with the aid of POCUS. Discussion:A parasternal approach to pericardiocentesis was used, which has recognised advantages compared to other techniques, primarily ease of in-line needle guidance. This case demonstrates the role of POCUS in integrating rapid bedside diagnosis with procedural planning in regional emergency settings. Conclusion:POCUS can facilitate timely diagnosis and safe, definitive management of cardiac tamponade where critical care or specialist support may not be available.
Introduction:Emergency physicians (EPs) are acquiring ever-increasing expertise in cardiac point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS). We compiled this case series to demonstrate current practice by EPs diagnosing infective endocarditis (IE) using POCUS. Methods:This case series outlines 19 cases of IE diagnosed in the Emergency Department (ED) by Australasian EPs. It is a retrospective review of cases occurring between 2013 and 2022. Results:Our cohort's characteristics: 84% male, with a mean age of 42, and 79% were people who inject drugs (PWID) intravenously. Left heart valves were affected in 68% of patients, with Streptococcus viridans species (37%) and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) (53%) being the commonest pathogens identified on blood culture. Mean duration of acute hospitalisation was 30 days, and the mortality rate was 21%. Discussion:Echocardiographic diagnosis of IE by EPs is occurring with increasing frequency, and we expect this trend to accelerate further as skillsets and machine image quality improve. Early diagnosis of IE in the ED has high potential to reduce morbidity and mortality in this vulnerable patient group. Conclusion:Further research is needed to determine the sensitivity and specificity of EP-performed cardiac POCUS for identification of vegetations.
Background:McConnell's sign on point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has traditionally been associated with acute pulmonary embolism (PE). However, current evidence suggests that McConnell's sign may not be as specific as commonly thought. Key Findings:We present the case of an 85-year-old gentleman presenting to the emergency department (ED) with clinical features and ECG findings consistent with acute right ventricular myocardial infarction (RVMI). POCUS in the ED revealed McConnell's sign. Nevertheless, the patient was appropriately referred for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to treat RVMI. Discussion:Had the treating team assumed that McConnell's sign was specific for PE, the patient might have been managed inappropriately, critically delaying coronary reperfusion through PCI. We argue that clinical teaching and guidelines should have greater emphasis on contextualising McConnell's sign with the clinical presentation in order to improve patient outcomes when making time-sensitive decisions. Additionally, the relationship between RV NSTEMI and McConnell's sign is yet to be explored in the available literature, and further research into this area could greatly improve diagnostic differentiation in the absence of regional ischaemia on ECG.
Background:Subtle fractures of the distal forearm in adults are not always readily apparent on radiography. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) offers a potentially valuable adjunct to conventional radiography in fracture diagnosis. The main advantage of POCUS over radiography is its ability to delineate soft tissue structures, which can provide additional diagnostic information. Key Findings:Two adult patients who presented with isolated distal forearm injuries. They were chosen based on a high clinical suspicion for fracture but equivocal radiography findings. The pronator quadratus haematoma (PQH) sign was detected with sonography in both patients, with increased echogenicity and thickening of the muscle, caused by bleeding and swelling within the pronator quadratus muscle compartment, indicative of a distal radial fracture. Discussion:This case series illustrates how the sonographic PQH sign can be used as an adjunct to radiography for the diagnosis of adult distal radius fractures. However, prospective studies with more extensive cohorts are essential to validate the reliability of the PQH sign and to refine its use in clinical practice.
Background:Pulmonary oedema is characterised by fluid accumulation within the alveoli, impairing gas exchange and causing respiratory distress. While cardiogenic pulmonary oedema is common, non-cardiogenic causes are less frequent and typically result from increased capillary permeability. Contrast-induced non-cardiogenic pulmonary oedema (NCPE) is rare but clinically significant. Key Findings:We report a case of NCPE following iodinated contrast administration during breast imaging. Point-of-Care Lung ultrasound (LUS) detected early interstitial fluid through diffuse bilateral B-lines, which were not evident on chest radiography. This facilitated prompt diagnosis and guided timely treatment with non-invasive ventilation and intravenous furosemide. Discussion:This case highlights contrast-induced NCPE as a rare adverse event and demonstrates the role of bedside LUS as a rapid, non-invasive diagnostic modality. Early detection supported timely intervention and contributed to rapid clinical improvement. Wider integration of LUS in an acute care setting may enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve patient outcomes.
Introduction/Purpose:Point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) has evolved from bulky radiology-based machines to a core bedside tool in critical care. Training processes have shifted from informal apprenticeship to structured curricula, yet challenges in standardisation, competence assessment and accreditation persist. This review traces the historical development of PoCUS training and highlights contributions from pioneering educators. Methods:A narrative review of published literature, professional society guidelines and historical accounts was undertaken. Key milestones in PoCUS training, innovations in pedagogy and the perspectives of leading educators were synthesised to provide a comprehensive overview. Results:Early PoCUS training relied on apprenticeship and short workshops, which improved knowledge but failed to ensure sustained competence. Longitudinal programmes and fellowships offered more robust outcomes but were resource-intensive and inconsistently implemented. Professional societies issued guidelines, though most were consensus-based rather than evidence-driven, leading to variability in curricula and accreditation standards. Recent innovations include Free Open-Access Medical Education, simulation and artificial intelligence-assisted training. Despite these advances, surveys reveal persistent barriers such as lack of trained faculty, inconsistent assessment tools and medicolegal concerns. Discussion:The historical trajectory of PoCUS training underscores the tension between rapid clinical adoption and the slower development of robust educational frameworks. While innovations have expanded access, the absence of standardised, validated assessment and accreditation continues to limit training quality and patient safety. Conclusion:PoCUS training has advanced considerably but remains fragmented. Sustainable progress requires longitudinal, evidence-based curricula, validated assessment tools and global collaboration to ensure safe, high-quality training for future clinicians.
Introduction:Point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) is a critical diagnostic tool in intensive care, yet training pathways remain fragmented and inconsistently implemented. This study aimed to achieve expert consensus on the design and delivery of a longitudinal PoCUS-competence program for critical care trainees, focusing on the 'basic' level defined by existing guidelines. Methods:A modified Delphi process was conducted from April to October 2025, involving critical care stakeholders from India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Australia. Participants included trainees, educators, and institutional leaders with PoCUS experience. The web-based questionnaire was developed using Miller's pyramid, Competency-Based Medical Education, and Experiential Learning frameworks. Consensus was defined a priori as ≥ 80% agreement. Items were refined across three rounds, incorporating thematic feedback and controlled response summaries. Results:Of 215 invited participants, 59 (27%) completed Round 1, 34 (16%) completed Round 2, and 29 (13%) completed Round 3. Consensus was achieved for 14 of 17 items in Round 1, with the remaining items and new feedback explored in subsequent rounds. Round 2 resolved all outstanding items. Round 3 explored additional themes from Round 2 regarding trainer qualifications and 'train-the-trainer' components. All items reached consensus or were deemed sufficiently addressed. Discussion:The final Learning Ultrasound in Critical Care (LUCC) framework integrates modular design, structured mentorship, protected scanning time, and standardised assessments. It reflects broad stakeholder endorsement and aligns with contemporary educational principles. Conclusion:The LUCC framework offers a scalable, consensus-based model for longitudinal PoCUS training in critical care. It is adaptable across diverse settings and ready for pilot implementation and validation.
Aim:Stand-off gel pads made of natural ingredients may provide a low-cost option in clinical ultrasound imaging. This study investigated the performance and safety of homemade pads. Methods:Thirty stand-off gel pads were made of aloe vera, xanthan gum and cucumber. Testing of each was performed to assess mechanical failure, moisture loss, contamination rate and image quality. Mechanical strength was measured using a tensile testing machine; drying rate was calculated using the moisture loss formula; contamination was evaluated through colony counting; and image quality was assessed using a chicken breast phantom. Results:There was a significant difference in compressive force resistance between the stand-off gel pads (p = 0.044). The force required was higher for those made of xanthan gum compared with cucumber (p = 0.047). There was a significant difference in moisture loss (p < 0.001). Aloe vera gel exhibited a higher moisture loss (9.65% ± 0.15%) compared with xanthan gum (5.94% ± 0.11%) and cucumber (5.81% ± 0.11%) (p < 0.001). There was a significant difference in axial resolution (p = 0.037), lateral resolution (p = 0.029) and striations in the chicken breast parenchyma (p = 0.037). Speckle artefacts are presented in xanthan-gum-based stand-off gel pad. There was a borderline significant difference of artefact presence in images produced using all pads (p = 0.050). Microbial counts were too low to be quantified. Conclusion:A cucumber stand-off gel pad is a practical alternative for clinical use owing to its structural integrity, retained moisture and low microbial contamination. The image quality produced using the pad was comparable with the conventional glove-filled-with-water stand-off method.
Introduction:Ultrasound equipment is recognised as a potential source of harmful microorganisms which could lead to clinical infection. This highlights the importance of standardised infection prevention and control strategies for ultrasound practice across Australia and New Zealand. This revised guideline supersedes the similarly named 2017 guideline and was collaboratively developed by the Australasian Society for Ultrasound in Medicine (ASUM) and the Australasian College for Infection Prevention and Control (ACIPC). Methods:A multidisciplinary working group was assembled consisting of ultrasound practitioners from varying specialty areas and infection control specialists. The guideline recommendations were informed by a review of relevant literature, national and international standards, and current Australian and New Zealand regulatory requirements. A catalyst for the revision of these guidelines was the release of the Australian Standard AS5369:2023-Reprocessing of reusable medical devices and other devices in health and non-health related facilities. Consensus was achieved through structured discussions and iterative drafting including wider stakeholder feedback. Results:Recommendations for transducer reprocessing were based on the invasiveness of the ultrasound transducer as well as the type of human tissue it contacted during use. Particular attention is also given to the safe use of ultrasound gel, transducer covers, as well as broader considerations of standard and transmission-based precautions, including the use of aseptic technique. Conclusion:Implementation of this guideline by ultrasound clinicians and their facilities will reduce the risk of transmission of potentially harmful microorganisms and ensure infection prevention and control practices across Australia and New Zealand are aligned with accepted national standards. Impact Statement:This guideline outlines the Australian and New Zealand standard for infection prevention and control as it relates to ultrasound practice. This 2026 revision supersedes the similarly named 2017 guideline and was collaboratively developed by the Australasian Society for Ultrasound in Medicine (ASUM) and the Australasian College for Infection Prevention and Control (ACIPC). The multidisciplinary working group used published literature, national and international standards, and relevant regulatory requirements in formulating the recommendations. This guideline should be used by clinicians and facilities using ultrasound to reduce the transmission of potentially harmful microorganisms and improve patient care.
Background:Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multi-system autosomal recessive disorder affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal and reproductive systems. One of its manifestations is pancreatic insufficiency. This could lead to constipation and impaired intestinal activity predisposing patients to intestinal obstruction and intussusception. Key Findings:This report discusses a case of a 25-year-old male with CF who presented with abdominal pain and constipation. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) was instrumental in the early diagnosis of intussusception, showing the classical sonographic features of intussusception. Discussion:This case highlights the importance of clinical vigilance and the utility of POCUS when managing patients with multi-systemic diseases, as they may present with atypical symptoms and rare diagnoses. Ultrasound is highly sensitive for diagnosing intussusception in the paediatric populations, but further studies may be needed to translate that finding to the adult population. Complementary computed tomography (CT) is of high value in evaluating for possible complications.
Background:There is some evidence of intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs) migrating after insertion; however, these studies had small sample sizes and have not been performed with an Australian population. Furthermore, current guidelines for IUDs provide ambiguous recommendations for post-procedure check-ups 5-8 weeks after insertion. In some cases, it is unclear if a pelvic ultrasound should be used to ascertain IUD position. The clinical usefulness of ultrasound as the primary post-procedure investigation has not been fully elucidated, nor has the migration and position change in an Australian population. Aim:To evaluate the migration or change in position of IUDs in an Australian population, and the clinical usefulness of a post-procedure check with an ultrasound following insertion. Methods:A retrospective cohort study over 3 years across eight Sydney sites by multiple practitioners. Results:645 cases were referred for insertion or IUD exchange under ultrasound. In 5% of cases the device was sub-optimally positioned at the time of insertion. On post-procedure follow-up, of the IUDs in the optimal position, 98.5% remained unchanged. 1.3% changed to a suboptimal position, but of these 75% had an underlying uterine anomaly. Of the devices that were sub-optimally positioned at time of insertion, 84% migrated to the optimal fundal position; those unchanged from suboptimal (16%) had anomalies or other causes identified. Conclusion:Once an IUD is inserted into an appropriate position in the fundus, it is extremely unlikely to change position unless the patient has an underlying structural anomaly or a previous hysterotomy. Fundal positioning at the initial insertion was 95%, which on post-procedure check-up improved to 98.7% of cases. Reassuringly, of the IUDs which were sub-optimally positioned, 84% improved their position to an appropriate location 5-8 weeks later. This also suggests migration of devices into an optimal position. With this evidence that most IUDs will migrate to a more appropriate position, we suggest all guidelines remove the 4-8 week check, and that to perform an ultrasound only if symptomatic or if unable to palpate the IUD strings. Impact Statement:This study evaluates the migration or change in position of intrauterine contraception devices after initial insertion in an Australian population, and the clinical usefulness of a post-procedure check using ultrasound. The current Australian guidelines are not explicitly clear whether an ultrasound is required in post-procedure check-ups. This study demonstrates that an ultrasound is not a necessary component of post-procedure check-ups, as the vast majority of IUDs will migrate into an appropriate position over a two-month period following insertion.
Introduction:Post-induction hypotension (PIH) is a common complication following anaesthetic induction and is associated with adverse perioperative outcomes. Ultrasound-generated inferior vena cava collapsibility index (IVC-CI) is a non-invasive measure of volume status that may predict PIH. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of IVC-CI in predicting PIH in adult, non-obstetric patients undergoing general anaesthesia. Methods:A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library (up to June 2024) identified studies reporting IVC-CI as a predictor of PIH. Prospective and retrospective observational studies were included, while studies involving paediatric, obstetric, or hypotensive patients pre-induction were excluded. The QUADAS-2 tool assessed risk of bias and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework was utilised to assess certainty of evidence. Pooled diagnostic performance was measured via area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). Meta-regression explored heterogeneity across studies. Results:Twenty-three studies (n = 1973) were included, with 16 studies (n = 1585) providing AUROC data. The pooled AUROC for IVC-CI in predicting PIH was 0.72 (95% CI, 0.64-0.80), indicating moderate diagnostic accuracy. High heterogeneity was observed (I 2 = 94.4%). Meta-regression showed no significant associations between AUROC and age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists status, or induction agents. Publication bias was identified (Egger's test, p < 0.001). The quality of evidence, as evaluated using the GRADE approach, was 'very low'. Discussion:IVC-CI shows potential as a predictive tool for PIH; however, significant heterogeneity, inconsistent protocols, and publication bias limit its robustness. Standardised measurement methods and larger studies are needed to confirm its clinical utility. Conclusion:Ultrasound-generated IVC-CI demonstrates moderate accuracy in predicting PIH and may assist in guiding pre-induction management strategies, such as fluid administration or vasopressor use.
Background:Lung ultrasound (LUS) is increasingly recognised as an essential diagnostic and monitoring tool in acute and critical care. As its use grows, understanding how LUS education is designed, delivered, and evaluated for practicing healthcare professionals has become essential. Objective:To map the evidence on educational interventions for LUS training, focusing on study characteristics, instructional strategies, and learning outcomes. Methods:This scoping review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines. It identified and charted studies on LUS training for practicing healthcare professionals. Data extraction covered study characteristics, learner profiles, instructional strategies, instructor credentials, training duration and setting, and learning outcomes, categorised using the New World Kirkpatrick Model. Results:Thirty eight studies involving physicians, paramedics, respiratory therapists, physiotherapists, and nurses met inclusion criteria. Most interventions combined didactic teaching with hands-on practice, including supervised scanning and simulation. Training was typically brief (median duration = 3.5 h). Outcomes focused mainly on learning (Level 2: 86.8%) and less often on behaviour (Level 3: 47.4%). Considerable variation in educational designs and outcome measures limited cross-study comparisons, and few studies assessed long-term retention or clinical impact. Conclusion:Current LUS training uses multimodal approaches that integrate theory with supervised practice. However, programs and assessments remain heterogeneous and rarely theory-informed. Future research should strengthen pedagogical foundations, align evaluation with competency frameworks, and examine learning sustainability, interprofessional training, and patient-centred outcomes to support effective and scalable LUS education.
Background:Patients presenting with pulseless electrical activity (PEA) in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) may receive inappropriate care if a manual pulse check is relied upon to determine pulselessness. This study aimed to investigate whether ultrasound-naïve paramedics could acquire an ultrasound image within a 10-s pause during a pulse check in a simulated cardiac arrest environment and interpret ultrasound-detectable pathology. Secondary aims focus on the quality of ultrasound image acquisition and the retention of learned knowledge. Method:Thirty paramedics participated in three sequential phases. Phase I involved a self-directed e-learning program covering an overview of ultrasound applications, including cultural considerations for indigenous New Zealand Māori in cardiac arrest. Phase II included face-to-face education, simulation assessments, and a knowledge quiz. Phase III included simulation assessments and a knowledge quiz. Ultrasound images were scored against the cardiac ultrasound structural assessment score (CUSAS) for quality. Results:During simulated cardiac arrest scenarios, the mean time to acquire an ultrasound scan was 9.6 s (SD = 2.9, 95% CI [9.3, 10.0]). Forty-seven per cent of study scans were captured within the 10-s pulse check pause. Of the acquired images, 73% (95% CI [67.8, 79.4]) of scans scored a CUSAS of ≥ 3, demonstrating adequate image quality. Participants correctly interpreted 91% (95% CI [88.5, 94.5]) of 243 pathological scans during the simulations. In Phase II, 83 of 87 interpretations were correct (95%, 95% CI [91.0, 99.7]), while in Phase III, 140 of 156 interpretations were correct (90%, 95% CI [84.9, 94.4]). Conclusions:During cardiac arrest simulations, paramedics on average took 9.6 s to acquire an ultrasound scan, with 47% of scans completed within the 10-s pulse-check pause. Research Aims:To determine if paramedics can acquire an ultrasound image within the 10-s pulse check pause in simulated pulseless electrical activity (PEA) cardiac arrest. Secondary aims focus on the quality of ultrasound image acquisition, interpretation and retention of learned knowledge.
