In 1994 the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine called for 40 didactic hours of training in ultrasound and 50 practice exams per body part, a standard ACEP will soon revisit. Clearly, we need a universal curriculum and a way to approach hospitals for credentialing and privileges. Emergency medicine physicians are passionate about their work. Ultrasound is a demanding technique, highly operator-dependent. It is also true that there are indications for urgent and even emergent ultrasounds.
Ectopic pregnancy is a good example.
In any setting, including the ED, the value of ultrasound is dependent upon specialized skills of the physician performing and interpreting the study. Key scientific and educational organizations have, for many years, emphasized the importance of training and experience in providing quality ultrasound diagnosis. Radiology departments have traditionally provided studies for the ED, and radiologists are well prepared to accept this responsibility. Radiology residencies and radiology board examination emphasize ultrasound training and experience. We certainly hope emergency medicine doesn t refute the need for adequate training.