RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Review of respiratory physician inpatient pleural ultrasound service
JF European Respiratory Journal
JO Eur Respir J
FD European Respiratory Society
SP p3556
VO 38
IS Suppl 55
A1 Burhan Khan
A1 Majid Mushtaq
YR 2011
UL http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/38/Suppl_55/p3556.abstract
AB Introduction: The appropriate and timely investigation, interventions and management of pleural effusions remains discrepant with variable practices and pathways, possible impacting upon quality of care.Aims: To ascertain the qualitative and quantitative outcomes of running a Respiratory physician led inpatient pleural ultrasound service.Methods: A prospective analysis of 12-18 month experience in a district general hospital of providing an inpatient pleural service by chest physicians with thoracic ultrasound.Results: From May 2010 to date (10 months) 111 patients were included. We compare the pleural disease activity level pre and post establishing of this service.View this table:Table 1. Overview Pre & Post establishing Inpatient Pleural Ultrasound ServiceThe remit and breadth of inpatient pleural service and interventions undertaken are as follows.View this table:Table 2. Type of Inpatient Pleural Ultrasound & InterventionConclusion: Provision of an inpatient pleural service does require work planning and resources but results in qualitative and quantitative improvements in patient care including: improved clinical practices by avoiding “X” marks the spot; pleural interventions done quicker and safely with no complications to date; and improved pathways for patients with pleural disease.