The education and training goals for focused cardiac ultrasound (FoCUS) following an Indication, Acquisition, Interpretation, and Medical decision-making framework
| Education/training goals in FoCUS | Preferred learning tool | |
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Indications and background knowledge
(may be pre-existing) | Basic physics of ultrasound Cardiac anatomy/sonoanatomy Indications of FoCUS Hemodynamic instability or undifferentiated shock Cardiac arrest Pericardial effusion/tamponade: signs and symptoms Heart failure: signs and symptoms High cardiac risk patients Adjunct to physical examination Limitations and pitfalls Experience and skill set of performing physician No quantifiable data Functionality of equipment | Didactics |
| Image acquisition | Ergonomics Transducer selection Patient positioning to optimize views Practice performing FoCUS views: Parasternal long axis Parasternal short axis Apical 4-chamber view Subcostal 4 chamber Subcostal inferior vena cava | Hands on training |
| Image interpretation | Qualitative assessment of: Ventricular dimensions and systolic function Volume status/responsiveness Pericardial effusion/tamponade Gross anatomical abnormalities Gross signs of chronic heart disease | Hands on training Clinical case discussions |
| Medical decision-making | Ability to integrate exam findings to patient management Evaluate for and determine treatment for the following pathology Local anesthetic systemic toxicity Aortic stenosis Hypovolemia Massive pulmonary embolism Pericardial effusion/tamponade Gross ventricular failure | Clinical case discussions |