Page 98 - Ultrasonography in Prehospital and Emergency Medicine - Rein Ketelaars
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Chapter 4
Abstract
Background
Diagnostic ultrasound (US) is increasingly used by non-radiologists in trauma victims and critically ill patients. In the Emergency Department (ED), the extended focused assessment with sonography for trauma (eFAST), and polytrauma rapid echo-evaluation program (PREP) protocol are often used to assess these patients. Dutch PREP-trained Emergency Physicians (EPs) are implementing the use of US in the ED but might encounter barriers to overcome.
Objectives
This study aims to explore individual experiences of Dutch EPs.
Methods
We performed a qualitative study by conducting semi-structured interviews with Dutch EPs working in a Level 2 ED that have completed the two-day PREP course at least one year be- fore the interviews. Data were analyzed using directed content analysis.
Results
Eight EPs employed by eight different hospitals were interviewed. Thirteen categories were identified in the transcribed interviews and these were combined into four general themes: (1) the desire to develop the Emergency Medicine specialty, both nationally and local; (2) in- centives to start using US; (3) exploring practical applications of US; (4) barriers faced while implementing EP-performed US on the ED. The interviewees regard the course to be a solid base and are eager to independently perform US examinations although challenges are faced.
Conclusions
This exploratory study provides essential insight in Dutch EPs implementing US in their ED. It shows there is a need to develop a quality assurance system and it identified barriers that have to be dealt with.
  





















































































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