Introduction to Ultrasound in Cardiac Arrest & Peri-arrest

This workshop will be run during the Heart Smart Malta 2026 international conference. Focused Point-of-Care Ultrasound for Resuscitation Teams 4-Hours | Flipped Classroom | Hands-On Training 

Course Rationale 

Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) has emerged as a powerful adjunct in cardiac  arrest management. When integrated appropriately into resuscitation algorithms,  ultrasound can help identify reversible causes, differentiate true from pseudo-PEA,  and refine prognostic assessment — without compromising high-quality CPR. 

This intensive 4-hour course is designed for clinicians involved in resuscitation care  who wish to develop structured, efficient ultrasound use during arrest scenarios. 

Educational Model 

This programme follows a flipped classroom format:  

• Delegates complete structured online pre-course lectures prior to  attendance. 

• The face-to-face session is 100% hands-on  

• Small group teaching with a 1:5 instructor-to-candidate ratio ensures high  scanning exposure and immediate feedback. 

This format maximises practical skill acquisition within a short conference  timeframe.

Core Topics Covered 

Ultrasound Fundamentals in Arrest Settings 

• Familiarisation with machines and optimisation of settings 

• Probe handling and ergonomics 

• Probe selection  

• Image acquisition within rhythm-check pauses 

• Avoiding prolonged CPR interruptions 

Focused Cardiac Ultrasound (FoCUS) 

Subcostal and Parasternal Long-axis Views  

Structured interpretation for: 

• Cardiac activity vs standstill 

• Severe LV systolic dysfunction 

• Right ventricular dilatation (PE suspicion) 

• Pericardial effusion and tamponade physiology

Pneumothorax Assessment 

• Lung sliding, lung pulse & vertical artefacts 

• Identification of lung point 

Learning Outcomes 

By the end of this masterclass, participants will be able to: 

1. Acquire subcostal and parasternal cardiac views efficiently during arrest. 2. Recognise sonographic features of key reversible causes. 

3. Perform rapid lung ultrasound for pneumothorax exclusion. 4. Integrate ultrasound findings into structured resuscitation decision-making. 5. Use ultrasound without compromising high-quality CPR delivery.

Certification 

Delegates who complete the pre-course learning and attend the full practical  session will receive a Certificate of Attendance.