Emergency Ultrasound

EMERGENCY ULTRASOUND -- (Extensions of Remarks - September 29, 2006)

SPEECH OF HON. HENRY BONILLA OF TEXAS
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2006

* Mr. BONILLA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak about the use of ultrasound imaging by emergency physicians. October 2006 marks the 10-year anniversary of the establishment of the American College of Emergency Physicians', ACEP, Section of Emergency Ultrasound, which actively encourages research and training of emergency physicians in the use of emergency ultrasound. October 15, 2006, celebrates Emergency Ultrasound Day.

* Emergency ultrasound, defined as the use of ultrasound imaging at the patient's bedside, is a critical component of quality emergency medical care. Ultrasound imaging enhances the physician's ability to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients in the emergency department. It provides immediate information and can answer specific questions about the patient's physical condition, such as determining whether a presenting patient has thoracic and abdominal traumas, ectopic pregnancy, pericardial effusion, and many other conditions.

* High quality emergency care is dependent on rapid diagnostic tools, enhanced safety of emergency procedures, and reduced treatment time. Imaging technology has greatly improved quality of care and made invasive medical procedures safer.

* Emergency physicians are trained in the use of imaging equipment during their residency, as well as continuing medical education courses. Hospital privileges further validate this training.

* Emergency ultrasound has moved outside the hospital due to its compact nature. In fact, emergency ultrasound technology is helpful on-site during military and disaster medical care. It has served in the care of America's brave military troops during both the Gulf and Iraq Wars. Also, emergency ultrasound was used to care for patients last year after Hurricane Katrina, and will be helpful in responding to other disasters and mass casualty events.

* Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the work of the ACEP Section of Emergency Ultrasound. It has increased awareness of the contribution and value of emergency ultrasound by emergency physicians in the medical care of emergency patients, survivors of disasters, and our military forces serving at home and abroad. Research in this field should continue to be encouraged to allow the adaptation of critical technologies to continually improve the quality of emergency care.

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