Impact Of Nurse-Performed Point-Of-Care Ultrasound (Pocus) In Intensive Care: A Systematic Review Protocol

BACKGROUND: Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is increasingly used in critical care to support real-time clinical decision-making. Although traditionally performed by physicians, recent advances have enabled nurses to integrate POCUS into their practice. In the intensive care unit (ICU), where timely and accurate assessments are critical, POCUS performed by nurses can improve diagnostic accuracy, guide clinical interventions, and improve patient outcomes. However, the overall impact of this practice has not yet been systematically evaluated. Aim: This systematic review aims in terms of clinical decision-making, diagnostic accuracy, timeliness of care, and patient-related outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The protocol follows the PRISMA-P 2015 guidelines and is registered in PROSPERO (N. CRD420251114795). A comprehensive literature search will be conducted in four databases: PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science. The review will include primary peer-reviewed studies involving adult ICU patients and assessing POCUS performed by nurses. The quality of the study will be evaluated using the JBI Critical Appraisal Tools. Data will be synthesized narratively and quantitatively, where possible. EXPECTED RESULTS: This review will provide a structured synthesis of existing evidence on nurse-led POCUS in intensive care. It will explore its clinical utility and influence on decision-making, care quality, and patient outcomes. DISCUSSION: Findings are expected to inform clinical practice, training strategies, and policy development to integrate nurse-performed POCUS into ICU protocols. This review may also identify gaps in the literature to guide future research.