Use of Ultrasound in the Diagnosis and Management of Pediatric Respiratory Emergencies: What is the Evidence?

Respiratory emergencies have a variety of underlying causes and presentations. Studies have shown the point-of-care lung ultrasound is useful in determining the diagnosis in adult populations. There is also growing pediatric literature detailing the usefulness of point-of-care lung ultrasound in pediatric emergency care. This article will review the current evidence behind the use of point-of-care lung ultrasound in diagnosing pneumothorax, pleural effusions, pneumonia, pulmonary contusions, bronchiolitis, and pulmonary edema.