SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Patient Perspectives on Hospitalist Use of Point-of-Care Ultrasound

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This study examined hospitalized patients’ perceptions of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) when performed by attending hospitalists for diagnostic or clinical reasons. While POCUS use by hospitalists is increasing and can improve care processes, little was previously known about how inpatients experience it.<br /><br />After IRB approval, 45 English-speaking adult patients on internal medicine wards who had undergone bedside POCUS were invited to complete a 10-question survey on a hospital iPad. Patients with altered mental status, those who received ultrasound only for educational purposes, and non-English speakers were excluded. The survey included six questions adapted from validated POCUS satisfaction tools and three questions based on HCAHPS patient-experience items. Responses used a 5-point Likert scale, with “agree” and “strongly agree” combined for analysis.<br /><br />Results showed very positive patient perceptions. Ninety-six percent of respondents said POCUS improved their overall satisfaction with care. The same percentage felt it improved interaction with their hospitalists. Ninety-one percent reported that it helped doctors explain things clearly, treat them with respect, and listen carefully. Patients also felt it made care more efficient and increased their likelihood of wanting POCUS again if hospitalized in the future. However, 16% reported that the exam was uncomfortable or painful.<br /><br />Overall, the study suggests that bedside POCUS is well accepted by hospitalized patients and may enhance communication, respect, and satisfaction with care. The findings support further research in this area and encourage hospitalists to use bedside ultrasound when clinically appropriate.

Asset Subtitle

Abigail Felsted

Meta Tag

Author List Abigail Felsted, Annie P. Galt, Audrey York, John Gerstenberger, Santosh Reddy

Category Research

Concept Point-of-Care Ultrasound

Concept Patient Satisfaction

Concept Hospitalist

Concept Physician Communication

Concept Study Design

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization Maine Medical Center

Presenting Author Abigail Felsted

Track Technology in Hospital Medicine

Keywords

point-of-care ultrasound

POCUS

hospitalized patients

hospitalist

patient satisfaction

bedside ultrasound

patient perception

internal medicine

clinical communication

HCAHPS

Point-of-Care Ultrasound

Patient Satisfaction

Hospitalist

Physician Communication

Study Design