Ultrasound-Enhancing Agent and IV Administration in Cardiac Sonography: How Sonographers Play a Key Role in Positively Affecting Key Performance Indicators

Abstract

As the health system in the United States continuously searches for ways to reduce costs and improve the health care experience, cardiac sonographers are uniquely positioned to add to this initiative. Tasked with providing high-quality imaging studies in outpatient and inpatient areas, the scope of practice for sonographers continues to evolve. To ensure quality imaging, ultrasound-enhancing agents (UEAs) are needed in patients with suboptimal images to improve delineation of left ventricular endocardial borders. This process involves intravenous (IV) access and occurs in both patients in ambulatory clinics and hospitals. Historically, health care professionals delegated to perform these duties have been nursing, radiology, and nuclear medicine staff. Because these professionals have their own job responsibilities, the potential to complete a transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) with UEA, in a timely fashion, may be compromised. Expanding the practice of cardiac sonographers to include these duties should be supported to facilitate uninterrupted patient care, efficiency, and stakeholder satisfaction.