We aimed to systematically map the emerging evidence surrounding PT-performed POCLTUS and outline the evidence regarding PT training of POCLTUS.
This review followed standard scoping review methodology according to the Joanna Briggs Institute and is reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. We searched five databases from inception using the terms “point of care ultrasound”, “physiotherapy”, “respiratory conditions” and their synonyms. Screening and data extraction was performed independently and in duplicate using the Covidence web-based software. Studies were excluded if they included therapeutic ultrasound, POCLTUS performed by healthcare providers other than PTs, grey literature, and non-cardiorespiratory conditions. Data extracted included the purpose, study design, population(s), the purpose of POCLTUS, respiratory condition, and competency training. Both descriptive and narrative analyses were used to summarize and present data.This review followed standard scoping review methodology according to the Joanna Briggs Institute and is reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. We searched five databases from inception using the terms “point of care ultrasound”, “physiotherapy”, “respiratory conditions” and their synonyms. Screening and data extraction was performed independently and in duplicate using the Covidence web-based software. Studies were excluded if they included therapeutic ultrasound, POCLTUS performed by healthcare providers other than PTs, grey literature, and non-cardiorespiratory conditions. Data extracted included the purpose, study design, population(s), the purpose of POCLTUS, respiratory condition, and competency training. Both descriptive and narrative analyses were used to summarize and present data.
Of 11,295 citations screened, 10 studies met inclusion criteria. A total of 481 participants were included, ranging in age from seven days to 76 years. PT-led POCLTUS is primarily being used with adult populations (n=7) as compared to pediatric (n=3). PT-led POCLTUS is currently being used to diagnose, assess, and treat a variety of respiratory conditions such as atelectasis, consolidation, pneumothorax, and diaphragm dysfunction.
POCLTUS is a diagnostic tool that is rapidly growing within physiotherapy practice. It is used primarily among PTs in adult ICU settings to confirm suspected respiratory diagnoses, perform lung assessments, treat lung pathologies, and evaluate diaphragmatic excursion. Future research should aim to explore how PTs are trained on the use of POCLTUS and further evaluate its impact on patient outcomes, especially given its lack of reported adverse events.
Physiotherapists have the knowledge and skills to be able to implement POCLTUS. This work highlights the limited evidence of competency training for PTs working with patients with respiratory diagnoses. The development and evaluation of competency-based training for PTs is paramount.
Ultrasound
