This study compares the efficacy, accuracy, and clinical impact of Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) against traditional imaging methods in critically ill patients. A cross-sectional study of 140 patients was conducted, assessing sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, accuracy for conditions like pneumothorax and pulmonary edema, decision-making time, and cost-effectiveness. POCUS showed significantly higher sensitivity (64.3% vs 53.6%, p=0.003), specificity (60.7% vs 57.1%, p=0.01), positive predictive value (57.1% vs 50.0%, p=0.007), and negative predictive value (67.9% vs 60.7%, p=0.002) compared to traditional imaging. Additionally, POCUS reduced diagnosis time (15 vs 30 minutes, p=0.0001), intervention time (25 vs 50 minutes, p=0.0001), and overall management time (40 vs 80 minutes, p=0.0001). Cost-effectiveness analysis favored POCUS due to its lower initial and maintenance costs. In conclusion, POCUS outperforms traditional imaging in diagnostic efficacy and efficiency in critical care. Its speed, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness make it a promising primary diagnostic tool, although proper training is essential for optimal use.

Jyoti Borse has completed her MD Anaesthesia at the age of 42 years from Bharti University India. She is an Assistant Professor at SKNMC Sinhgad Institute. She has attended various conferences, webinar and workshops all over India and also conducted BLS, ACLS programs for postgraduate students and also published papersin Medpulse International Journal of Anaesthesiology.