[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 125 (Friday, September 29, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1915]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                          EMERGENCY ULTRASOUND

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                           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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