POCUS25: Top 25 Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) Community-Defined Practice Domains

Abstract

Introduction

Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) is the use of ultrasound as an enhancement to the physical examination in clinical practice. The end goal is improved diagnostic accuracy and expedited management. The utility and versatility of POCUS have been validated by its role during the COVID-19 pandemic. This research is the first of its kind to help identify the top 25 global POCUS practice domains or core competencies as defined by POCUS users from around the world.

Methods

Following a review of peer-reviewed journal articles and medical school and residency curricula, a list of 41 POCUS practice domains was compiled into a survey. Survey respondents were tasked with rating these by level of importance to determine the top 25 POCUS practice domains.

Results

Survey data provided by 360 respondents from 51 countries were used to identify the top 25 POCUS practice domains.

Conclusion

The POCUS25 list identifies core competencies that can be of value to develop curricula and establish credentialing guidelines for clinicians and educators.