SDMS Position Statement

Limited Sonographic Examinations

There is an increased utilization of ultrasound services in emergency situations. Additionally, there is a trend for individuals to perform "limited" ultrasound examinations. Examples of these uses are:

• emergency evaluation of trauma patients for internal bleeding
• possible ectopic pregnancy
• carotid artery obstruction
• cardiac failure or tamponade
• aortic dissection
• evaluation in labor and delivery for fetal presentation and placental location

All of these conditions can result in increased morbidity and mortality, and the emergency situation may initially preclude a more complete examination . There is, at the same time, a tendancy for many medical personnel to believe that the "limited" sonographic examination only requires a "limited" education. The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography does not equate "Limited Education" to "Limited Examination." It is precisely in these emergency situations that accurate information should be acquired rapidly. The examiner needs more experience, rather than less, in order to evaluate for the unexpected findings, which are often encountered in confusing emergency situations.

The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography endorses qualified examiners certified by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers for all applications of ultrasound.