Point of Care Ultrasound during the Medical Teaching Rounds in the COVID-19 Era -The Hospitalist Perspective-

Abstract

In Internal Medicine, POCUS is gaining significant favorability. An increasing number of clinicians are interested in being trained for POCUS. The newer portable ultrasounds are small and can be transported easily during rounds. Their design is now for a more intuitive use. Training of Internists now involves assessing patients utilizing POCUS technology in residency. Here at Danbury Hospital, we have formal POCUS training. Attending internists are now attempting to incorporate POCUS training as a part of continuing medical education. POCUS in the hospitalist or general practitioner world has not been completely defined. Generally, the patient seen in the medical ward is not ill as the patients seen in intensive care units (ICU), Emergency Department (ED), and other high acute-care settings. However, from time to time, internists need to treat high acuity patients on the medical floors before transferring them to a higher level of care or when they are required to cover an open ICU or Progressive Care Unit (step-down unit). The role of POCUS while managing stable patients may differ significantly compared to the role in more acute patients. A well-defined spectrum for the use of POCUS does not currently exist. However, there are efforts in this regard. 
 POCUS is an emerging and exciting diagnostic modality in the medical ward. We believe that the pandemic has given it a new meaning for the hospitalist and general practitioner, and we expect that its use and significance will only grow in the few years ahead.