The contemporary role of point-of-care ultrasound amid a global health emergency: a critical review

Abstract

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a well-established and growing paradigm in modern medicine. Increased access to devices and reduced overhead costs have opened up ultrasound to applications that have been historically restrictive. Contemporary issues surrounding POCUS will be explored and discussed, along with how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the POCUS realm across the healthcare continuum. How POCUS has developed over time, the arguments surrounding its use in expert and non-expert hands, and governance issues are critiqued. Furthermore, the effects of COVID-19 on healthcare resources and how POCUS as a tool has been used to mitigate these issues are examined, along with lessons learned and future developments.