Introduction: Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is recommended for use in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) when reversible causes are suspected. However, studies have shown that POCUS can increase the time of pauses between compressions, in which pulse and rhythm are verified.
Objective: To describe possible factors associated with longer pauses between chest compressions with the use of POCUS.
Methodology: Methodology: Literature review in PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVSaúde) databases. The search was performed without time or language restriction, using the following strategy: ((arrest, cardiopulmonary OR cardiopulmonary resuscitation OR Advanced Cardiac Life Support) AND (point of care ultrasound OR POCUS)).
Results and discussion: The database search resulted in 6177 publications. Of these, only five studies were included. Lack of ultrasound training is associated with longer pauses by approximately 3.1 seconds (95% CI 0.6-5.6; p-value= 0.02). Operating the POCUS and leading CPR at the same time was associated with a delay of up to 6.1 seconds (95% CI 0.4-11.7; p-value= 0.04). In addition, the time to place the ultrasound probe on the patient's chest and the lack of a systematization for POCUS use may also contribute to longer pauses.
Final thoughts: It is hoped that this discussion will spark interest in further research on the topic, as well as be used to devise new protocols for the use of POCUS in CPR to circumvent the limitations described.