Real-Time Decisions, Real-Time Results: The Power of Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS)

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) serves as an invaluable tool in the assessment of anatomical variation, the guidance of invasive interventions and the diagnosis of critical conditions which may lead to changes in plan of care. Using POCUS, anesthesiologists may benefit from this fast diagnostic tool. This technology improves speed, success rate and gets patients to surgery faster. The purpose of this pilot program evaluation was to identify the anesthesiologist’s system and processes for clinical decision-making during the perioperative phases of care. A MANOVA was conducted to identify differences across groups. The independent variable was the type of POCUS scan performed [GU, Cardio, Gastric, Pulmonary]. The dependent variables were the anesthesiologists’ systems and processes for clinical decision-making: 1) Overall risk potential; 2) Aspiration potential; 3) Issues with cardiovascular hemodynamics; 4) Issues with volume status; and 5) Inotropic medication intervention. MANOVA findings identified statistically significant differences as evidenced by Wilks’ Λ =0.33 (30, 27) F=1.99 (p< 0.0001). After rejecting the null hypothesis, one-way ANOVA contrasts identified three statistically significant differences: 1) patients (95%) who were at some type of overall risk (p< 0.05); 2) patients (36%) who were at risk for aspiration (p< 0.001); and 3) patients (41%) who had issues with cardiovascular hemodynamics (p< 0.001). POCUS is a proven imaging modality that is convenient, portable, and sensitive. It can identify various anatomical landmarks, conditions and pathologies, reduce reliance on CT scans, and maximize outcomes. Ultimately, POCUS scans have the potential to improve clinical outcomes, shorten hospital stays, and lower costs, benefiting both patients and healthcare teams.