Abstract
Objectives
The aim of this study was to examine the capability of ultrasound-naïve paramedics
to obtain interpretable Focused Assessment With Sonography for Trauma (FAST) images
under the remote direction of emergency physicians (EPs).
Methods
Paramedics without experience using ultrasound participated in a 20-minute lecture
covering orientation to the ultrasound machine and the FAST examination. The paramedics
subsequently performed FAST examinations on a model patient, whereas the EP remained
in another room, out of visual contact. The EP communicated with the paramedic via
radio, viewing video from the ultrasound machine on a monitor and directing the probe
movements to obtain the views of the FAST examination. We examined the success rate,
time to complete the examinations, and adequacy of images from the paramedics' first
FAST examination.
Results
Fifty-one paramedics performed their first FAST examinations and were able to successfully
complete 100% of the views of the FAST. The median time from probe placement to examination
completion was 262 seconds (interquartile range, 206-343 seconds). The median time
to complete right upper quadrant (RUQ) versus left upper quadrant (LUQ) views was
39 and 50 seconds, respectively. The time to complete the LUQ scan took significantly
longer than the RUQ (
P < .01). Paramedics completed cardiac and pelvic view in a median time of 42 and 25
seconds, respectively.
Conclusions
The study demonstrated that paramedics with no prior ultrasound experience could obtain
FAST images under remote guidance from experienced EPs in less than 5 minutes. Given
rapidly evolving data transmission technology, this has applicability in battlefield,
remote, and rural prehospital settings.
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Article Info
Publication History
Published online: April 14, 2010
Accepted:
December 2,
2009
Received in revised form:
November 30,
2009
Received:
August 31,
2009
Footnotes
☆This study was presented in the form of an oral presentation at the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine National Meeting in San Diego, California, March 2008.
☆☆This is a non-funded research project.
Identification
Copyright
© 2011 Elsevier Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
