When incorporated into the 10-second pulse/rhythm check of the advanced life support (ALS) protocol, focused cardiac ultrasound is a useful adjunct to cardiopulmonary resuscitation. In this case series, we demonstrated the feasibility of echocardiographic assessment using subcostal-only view in ALS (EASy-ALS) performed by anesthesiology residents during the periresuscitative period after structured training. Residents obtained diagnostic quality images in 100% of the self-reported cases, which enabled them to identify cardiac motion and potentially reversible causes of hemodynamic instability. Implementation of EASy-ALS into practice requires system-wide changes in cardiac arrest management for consistency, quality, and further evaluation of patient outcomes.
Institutions can develop admission criteria based on WBC count, hypotension, and "ill appearance." Persistently febrile, well-appearing patient can be discharged at 48 h with minimal risk for new complications.
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