EPSS is a simple, easy to learn tool that allows a quick estimation of left ventricular function. The value of EPSS lies in its objective findings that do not require specialized training for interpretation and utilization, as shown by numerous studies. In patients without mitral or aortic valvular pathology, EPSS can be obtained from a single echocardiography view, providing quantifiable information on heart function within minutes. EPSS > 7mm is typically cited as the cut-off for abnormal ejection fraction (<50%). It offers a further tool for inexperienced emergency physicians that can be used to complement the overall assessment and risk stratification of patients with congestive heart failure.

After taking all the time and resources for conscious sedation, you find yourself unsure whether the shoulder dislocation has been reduced. You have two options: 1) Wait for sedation to wear off. Send patient around corner to x-ray. a) If reduced, great. b) If not reduced, then your team must repeat the whole process. 2) ULTRASOUND!

The Mount Sinai interns' latest US pearl shows us that: The proper use of POCUS for small bowel obstruction can expedite care, replace plain film radiography, reduce cost, reduce duration of stay, lead to expedited surgical consultations, and reduce unnecessary radiation. Better yet, studies have shown that emergency medicine physicians can accurately diagnose SBO with high sensitivity and specificity after a short amount of training.

The latest quick-hit ultrasound pearl details the critical diagnosis and interpretation of abdominal aortic aneurysm that emergency providers cannot afford to miss.

Point-of-care ultrasound is becoming an increasingly more common part of the emergency department evaluation. In this post, we explore the benefits of using water in place of ultrasound gel to evaluate distal extremity injuries.

Clinical history and physical concerning for acute coronary occlusion...equivocal EKG...normal Troponin or Troponin still pending... Bedside echo for regional wall motion abnormalities can detect imminent focal ischemia

Use POCUS and get right to the (lung) point!

FOAMed has revolutionized medical education. This is the second part of a multipart series evaluating FOAMed resources for learners of all levels. Today’s post covers ultrasound, an essential tool in emergency medicine.