Work

Construction and Implementation of a Plastic Surgery Ultrasound Library for Medical Students, Physicians, and Physician Trainees

Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: effusion, ascites, hydronephrosis, pleural effusion, and bladder volume, with the objective of identifying previously undiagnosed pathologies and facilitating early medical interventions.The examinations were performed within 24 hours of admission by four trained and certified nurse practitioners, under the supervision of a gastroenterologist and three hospitalists.Results: A total of 134 admitted patients were included from two hospital medicine wards, with an average age of 73 Æ 14 years, a mean hospital stay of 22 Æ 18 days, and an average APACHE II score of 14 Æ 6. Abnormal findings were remarkable for 69 patients (51.4%) in IVC, 20 (14.9%) with hydronephrosis, 14 (10.4%) with pericardial effusion, 12 (8.9%)with ascites, 9 (6.7%) with pleural effusion.The APEX protocol led to unanticipated medical decisions in 94 patients (70.1%), including fluid status management in 54 (57.4%), hydronephrosis management in 14 (14.9%), and pericardial effusion assessment and management in 11 (11.7%).Conclusions: The APEX protocol, particularly the assessment of the IVC, provides a personalized approach for acutely ill patients, potentially enhancing patient safety and outcomes.This study highlights the potential role of POCUS examinations in unselected patients within relevant inpatient settings.
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W7128601427
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