Abstract 264: Accuracy and Indication of Emergency Department Echocardiography, What Needs to Be Improved? A Single Center Experience [Session Title: Poster Session PM]

Conclusion: In general, FE is a valuable tool which provides accurate assessment of volume status (IVC dimension) and for the most part accurately assessed EF and the presence of a pericardial effusion. However, FE may significantly underestimate EF in 15% of patients. Both LV and RV function and size may be difficult to assess based on time constraints, inadequate echo windows or technical issues with imaging. FE was unable to assess the aortic root accurately in 25% of cases. Despite the limitations of FE (acuity of medical conditions, the relative brevity of the study and modest training in echocardiography undertaken by most ED providers), FE remains a valuable tool which can be improved upon to enhance diagnostic accuracy. To improve ED FE utility and accuracy we suggest education surrounding appropriate use criteria, improved report documentation in the EMR, rotation of ED residents through the echo department for enhanced training, and rapid consultation with a dedicated echo technician in ED to aid with difficult studies. A prospective collaborative quality improvement initiative is planned.
Source: Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes - Category: Cardiology Authors: Tags: Session Title: Poster Session PM Source Type: research