Authors: Pawaskar, Manjiri; Balkrishnan, Rajesh; Kiser, Dennis; Gray, Marisa; Satiani, Bhagwan

Source: Journal for Vascular Ultrasound, Volume 32, Number 2, June 2008 , pp. 85-88(4)

Publisher: Society for Vascular Ultrasound

Abstract:

Purpose.—We sought to compare workflow and efficiency of mobile and portable scanners in ultrasound assessment at the bedside.

Method.—A prospective observational study was conducted using traditional mobile (GE LOGIQ 9) and lightweight portable (Z. one) scanners to measure the time taken for unilateral venous examination at the bedside. Total examination time was measured, including patient preparation, procedure, documentation, cleanup, travel, and rebooting time. Descriptive statistics and two sample t test was performed to compare work flow of mobile and portable scanners.

Results.—A total of 100 lower extremities of patients were evaluated with mobile (n = 43) and portable (n = 57) scanners. Mean total time required for an imaging procedure by portable (40.18 ± 9.06 min, mean ± SD) and mobile scanner (36.64 ± 8.84 min) was not significantly different. Mean procedure time (20.84 ± 4.08 min) needed by portable scanner was significantly greater than mobile scanner (16.94 ± 4.38 min; p < 0.05). However, mean rebooting time taken by a portable scanner (0.58 ± 0.55 min) was significantly less than a mobile scanner (2 ± 0.57 min; p < 0.05).

Conclusion.—The total examination time for both portable and mobile scanners was similar. The rebooting time was shorter for portable scanners whereas the actual procedure time was shorter for the mobile equipment. Travel time to and from the bedside is a significant component of total examination time. Further strategies to improve workflow may include refining the indications for portable testing and centralized stationing of equipment closer to high volume areas.

Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 2008-06-01

More about this publication?

• The Journal for Vascular Ultrasound (JVU) is the official journal of the Society for Vascular Ultrasound. It consists of original scientific and educational articles, case studies, book reviews, technical reviews, ultrasound principle reviews, viewpoints, letters to the editor, and CME tests. Regular reading of JVU, published quarterly, will keep you current in your field and provide essential information that can be applied in your practice.
  
  Previously known as the Journal of Vascular Technology - View Volumes 16-26 here
• Editorial Board
• Information for Authors
• Subscribe to this Title
• Membership Information
• Information for Advertisers
• Reprints
• ingentaconnect is not responsible for the content or availability of external websites

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Radiology & Imaging ,  Acoustics
• By this author: Pawaskar, Manjiri ;  Balkrishnan, Rajesh ;  Kiser, Dennis ;  Gray, Marisa ;  Satiani, Bhagwan

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers