Use of Point-of-Care Ultrasound for the Assessment and Management of Mechanically Ventilated Patients.

The use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has become a well-versed tool in both the assessment and management of critically ill and injured patients. POCUS is noninvasive, readily accessible, and can be repeatedly used without the risks associated with radiation, making it ideal for continuous monitoring. In the context of mechanical ventilation, POCUS can be instrumental in diagnosing and monitoring a variety of pulmonary and cardiac conditions. This article describes the utilization of POCUS through each phase of mechanical ventilation including its use before intubation, at the time of intubation, during mechanical ventilation, and up to the liberation of invasive ventilation.