Objectives

To acquire and interpret a complete set of diagnostic quality views to answer the clinical question:

• How should I manage this particular pericardial effusion?
• How should I manage this particular pericardial effusion?
• How should I manage this particular chamber disproportion?
• How should I optimise this RV/LV function?
• How should I manage this pulmonary embolism?
• How should I manage this hyperdynamic status?
• Is the heart responding appropriately to the pathological challenge?
• Risk stratify the individual patient using the ultrasound findings.

Expected Learning Outcomes:

At the end of this course the attendees should be able to:

• Answer BELS protocol clinical questions by acquiring and evaluating ultrasound images of the heart and IVC.
• Identify the parameters of safe application of ultrasound and its limitations in medical diagnosis.
• Identify the physical principles, artefacts and the steps for image optimisation while performing BELS protocol.
• Practice “hands on” ultrasound scanning skills required to maximise diagnostic ability in answering relevant clinical questions.
• Recognise the sonographic appearances of normal and abnormal cardiac structures required to answer clinical questions.
• Perform BELS protocol.
• Recognise variants, false-positives, and pathologies.
• Document the ultrasound findings.
• Interpret and integrate Point of Care Ultrasound (PoCUS) into shocked patient management pathway.
• Practice safe PoCUS.