POCUS for shock – review
Ultrasound to guide critical decisions: What you need to know
Rowe, Mckenzie MD; Ferrada, Paula MD, FACS, FCCM, MAMSE. Ultrasound to guide critical decisions: What you need to know. The Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery 100(5):p 692-699, May 2026. | DOI: 10.1097/TA.0000000000004815
Important information ~
Point-of-care ultrasound reliably distinguishes shock states (hypovolemic, cardiogenic, obstructive, distributive) within minutes.
Studies demonstrate that structured ultrasound protocols increase diagnostic accuracy from approximately 60% with clinical examination alone to approximately 85% and alter management in up to 50% of patients.
Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence integration, advanced venous congestion assessment (venous excess ultrasound score), and critical care transesophageal echocardiography are expanding the scope of bedside imaging.
Despite its utility, ultrasound remains operator dependent, requiring structured training and continuous competency assessment
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