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Focused cardiopulmonary ultrasonography disclosed unexpected pathology in patients undergoing urgent surgical procedures and induced changes in the anesthesia technique or supportive actions. Pre-operative focused ultrasonography seems feasible in patients above 60 year and/or with physical limitations but not in young, healthy individuals.

Implementation of POCUS by a systematic education program increased image acquisition skills across anesthesiologists employed at the department. POCUS was used in the intensive care setting, the pre-hospital setting, and to a lesser extent in the perioperative setting. Educational strategies for obtaining images under difficult conditions, practical equipment and evidence for effect on patient outcomes are required for full implementation of POCUS.

Teleconsultation between a physician at the EMCC and ambulance personnel and noncritically ill 1-1-2 patients results in an increased rate of patients treated and released with high satisfaction. The approach does not seem to compromise patient safety.

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