Uso do ultrassom point-of-care (POCUS) na parada cardiorrespiratória (PCR)

Objective: Explain and discuss critically the importance of POCUS use during CRA, elucidating the particularities of its usage. Bibliographic Review: The occurrence CRA presenting itself as a non-shockable rhythm has been rising in the last couple of decades. It is important to update the resources to attend these patients, aiming to improve prognosis. The use of POCUS as a tool for diagnosis and management has been addressed in the most recent advanced life support protocols. Its use can be considered during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), as long as it doesn’t interfere with the resuscitation maneuvers. POCUS can be used mainly to identify reversible causes of CRA but there is discussion regarding other possibilities. A counter-argument about its use is that it may adversely affect the quality of the RPC. Physical examination and history still are important factors for decision making and should not be neglected. Final Considerations: POCUS is useful for identifying reversible causes of CRA which impacts prognosis. Furthermore, it has shown other possible uses, such as the identification of false non-shockable rhythms, the assessment of the quality of the chest compressions and as a parameter for ceasing resuscitation efforts.