Summary
Ultrasound is a valuable tool for assessing hemodynamic status in patients with shock. It is a rapid, noninvasive, and portable modality that can be used to evaluate cardiac function, volume status, and the presence of pericardial effusion and tamponade.
Ultrasound can also be used to guide procedures such as central venous catheter placement and percutaneous pericardiocentesis.
Clinicians caring for critically ill patients should strongly consider integrating ultrasound into their resuscitation pathways.
