The Emerging Role of Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Pediatric Emergency Medicine

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is the bedside assessment by ultrasound to quickly assess patients for both procedural and diagnostic purposes. Pediatric emergency physicians are finding more applications for it in patients, making it a necessary adjunct to physical examinations. Being aware of its current use and limitations is important to all members of the health-care team. This article will review common POCUS indications for pediatric patients in the emergency department in the areas of abdominal and pulmonary emergencies, musculoskeletal injuries, and urgent vascular access.