Focused Cardiac Ultrasound (FoCUS): An Extension of the Cardiac Physical Exam?

Authors

Samuel G. Hathcock, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Cardiology

Advisor

Dr. Tom Colletti, DHSc, PA-C, DFAAPA

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to review the use of focused cardiac ultrasound (FoCUS) as an extension of the cardiac physical exam.

Method: A PubMed literature search was conducted with the search terms cardiac, focused, and ultrasound. Nine pertinent articles were retrieved and served as the basis for this clinical review.

Results: There is a significant amount of positive data that supports the use of FoCUS as a physical exam tool as well as a guide for clinical management. Data also supports the ease of use and teachability to providers who have never been exposed to ultrasound in their previous medical training. However, there currently is no standardized curriculum for training to use FoCUS in the United States.

Conclusion: Focused cardiac ultrasound is an extremely useful physical exam tool that has proven positive results. Advances in technology have allowed the use of ultrasound to be even more convenient than ever. However, for FoCUS to be adopted as an everyday physical exam tool, a standardized teaching curriculum must be developed in the United States.

Recommended Citation

Hathcock SG. Focused Cardiac Ultrasound (FoCUS): An Extension of the Cardiac Physical Exam?. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2022; 4(3).