How Ultrasound Can Transform Cardiac Arrest Resuscitation (Part 2!)

Effective integration of ultrasound during cardiac arrest requires strict adherence to 10-second pulse check limits, as the technology itself does not cause delays; rather, provider time management dictates procedural efficiency. Prioritize rapid acquisition of subcostal, parasternal, or apical four-chamber views to identify reversible causes without compromising chest compressions. Beyond cardiac imaging, transesophageal echocardiography and non-cardiac POCUS—specifically assessing for pneumothorax or hemothorax—provide critical diagnostic data during ongoing resuscitation. Furthermore, femoral pulse-wave Doppler serves as a superior alternative to manual palpation for pulse verification, with a peak velocity cutoff of 20 centimeters per second offering high specificity for identifying systolic blood pressure exceeding 60 mmHg. These techniques, when applied with disciplined procedural workflows, enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient management during high-acuity resuscitation events.