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33 paramedics had a short course in thoracic point of care ultrasound. There was a pre and post test that included the history and physical exam for patient scenarios with COPD and CHF exacerbations. Paramedics were asked to select the appropriate treatments. The post test included ultrasound images. Diagnostic accuracy in the post test improved by 17% and appropriate treatment selection improved by 23%. Paramedics were also able to correctly identify ultrasound images 90% of the time.
Bottom line: Introducing thoracic ultrasound to paramedics can improve patient care.
References
Fitzgerald E, Parker S, Hancock S, et al. Thoracic ultrasound may improve paramedic diagnostic and management accuracy in undifferentiated respiratory distress. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open. 2024;5(2):e13164. Published 2024 Apr 16. doi:10.1002/emp2.13164