Intro to Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) for the EMS Provider: A Hands On Experience

Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS)- Everybody’s doing it! A tool previously reserved for critical care paramedicine and helicopter EMS systems is now making its way to ground ambulance systems. With literature supporting the ability to effectively train paramedics in its use as well as cost of devices coming down it has opened up the opportunity to expand its use in all aspects of the prehospital environment. POCUS has a wide range of uses for EMS including trauma, cardiac arrest, differentiating causes of dyspnea, IV access, and abdominal pain. Join us for this 4-hour workshop will focus on the hands-on aspect of POCUS training and education and give attendees the fundamentals of performing basic ultrasound skills that can influence management in the prehospital setting. A mixed lecture and hand on skills lab will mesh introduction to lung, cardiac and FAST ultrasound with live scanning with EMS physicians, EM physicians, and ultrasound trained paramedics. Hear from the medical directors regarding setting up initial education and training including supporting literature for POCUS use. Also learn from paramedics currently using this skill regarding the initial challenges they faced as well as how POCUS fits in to their daily workflow.