The Utility of POCUS by Novice Clinicians in Diagnosing Heart Failure Project

Grant ID: EMJS-471R42-2024-PHAM

Project Summary

Acutely decompensated heart failure is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In 2020-21, it is estimated that around 34,400 presentations to the emergency department were due to heart failure. One of the most common ways in which patients present to the Emergency Department with this end diagnosis is with acute dyspnoea secondary to acute pulmonary oedema. Traditionally, acute pulmonary oedema is detected using a combination of history, physical examination findings and Chest XR (CXR). The recent widespread availability and use of point of care ultrasound (POCUS) has drastically changed the way patients are assessed in the emergency setting. Delays in completing X-rays and awaiting formal laboratory results (such as BNP) can result in delays in the diagnosis and management of patients in acutely decompensated heart failure. POCUS offers a bedside alternative that may be able to fast track a patient’s assessment in the emergency department. This study aims to determine the utility of POCUS by novice ultrasound users, to assist in detecting acute pulmonary oedema and to assist with diagnosing acutely decompensated heart failure in the emergency department. The outcome of this study may support the widespread training of medical officers working in emergency departments in the use of POCUS for detecting acute pulmonary oedema. If proven to be non-inferior to CXR and BNP, POCUS LUS will have a significant impact on the way patients with acutely decompensated heart failure are assessed.

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