Procedural Applications of Bedside Emergency Ultrasound

Bedside emergency ultrasound (EUS) has been used for decades by emergency physicians and has recently begun to gain widespread acceptance in the pediatric emergency medicine arena. The use of bedside EUS for procedural assistance is a rapidly growing trend in pediatric emergency care. Its use for procedural purposes is aimed at not only improving the success rates of the procedure itself but also reducing complications and, thus, maximizing patient safety. The need to limit these unfavorable consequences resulting from necessary procedures is a powerful force, driving placement of EUS in the pediatric emergency department. Researchers continue to identify new applications for this exciting technology as practitioners are gaining expertise with proper training and education. As the range of procedural applications expands, the pediatric emergency care practitioner will need to become familiar with this evolving technology.