Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) is a versatile diagnostic tool that empowers clinicians to integrate ultrasound imaging directly into patient assessment and intervention. Providers can perform POCUS in any setting, such as at the bedside, in the field, or during patient transport.
This immediate access to medical imaging can help expedite the diagnosis and treatment process during various situations, including emergencies. As a result, POCUS can enhance the effectiveness of medical treatment and significantly improve patient outcomes.
For that reason, portable devices, such as handheld ultrasound, are gaining popularity. These ultrasound systems are easy to use and can quickly capture images at the point of care. This blog discusses the different applications of handheld ultrasound for POC and its advantages and limitations.
Handheld ultrasound is a small, portable device that connects to a mobile device or larger ultrasound machine. It gives clinicians real-time images at the patient's bedside. These devices can fit in a pocket, making them easy to carry and capture patient images.
The size and functionality of handheld ultrasound devices offer many benefits to clinicians. Some of these include:
Healthcare providers use portable ultrasound machines in various care settings. They allow clinicians from different fields to take real-time images of their patients quickly. Some examples of applications include:
Handheld ultrasound is beneficial for clinicians and patients. However, important considerations should be made before using it for diagnosis:
Handhelds will likely increase in POCUS environments because they are affordable and portable. Mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets have become the norm over the past decade. Therefore, handhelds will be an intuitive imaging option for newer and younger clinicians entering the field.
Despite their limitations, the technology behind these devices and the mobile apps that support them is constantly improving. Image quality on handhelds may not be as clear as that of larger ultrasound systems yet. However, advancements such as AI programs are helping to enhance these functionalities and capabilities.
Overall, handhelds offer many enticing benefits to healthcare professionals. The clinical and technical research behind these devices is rapidly progressing. Ultimately, handhelds will continue to improve and help bring clinicians closer to their patients.