Learning objectives for emergency focused ultrasonography of the heart
To obtain
– a subcostal 4-chamber view (S4C)
– an apical 4-chamber view (A4C)
– a parasternal long axis view (PLAX)
– a parasternal short axis view (PSAX)
To answer focused questions
– Is a pericardial fluid collection present?
– Is the left ventricle systolic function reduced?
– Are signs of pulmonary embolism present?
– Are signs of ascending aortic aneurism/dissection present?
B: Parasternal long axis view with dilated ascending aorta and effacement of the sinotubular junction C: Parasternal short axis 4 view with pericardial fluid collection
D: Apical 4-chamber with dilated right cavities and compression of the inter-ventricular septum