Nurses’ use of ultrasonography in emergency departments: a scoping review protocol
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63176/tnpgpy51Keywords:
ultrasonography, hospital emergency service, nurses, scoping reviewAbstract
Introduction: Ultrasonography is a non-invasive, cost-effective imaging tool that uses high-frequency sound waves to generate images of internal organs and tissues. Its integration into nursing practice, especially in emergency departments (EDs), has the potential to enhance patient care, reduce healthcare costs, and improve outcomes. Despite growing evidence supporting nurses' use of ultrasonography in various settings, its application in EDs remains underexplored.
Objective: This scoping review aims to map the evidence regarding ultrasonography use by nurses in EDs, focusing on its clinical applications and contributions to nursing practice.
Methods: Following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) framework, this protocol adheres to PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Studies involving nurses in EDs, published within the last five years in English, Portuguese, or Spanish, will be included. Databases such as MEDLINE and CINAHL will be searched using a comprehensive strategy, and results will be managed with Rayyan. Data will be extracted using a JBI template and analyzed through tables and narrative synthesis to identify themes and gaps in the literature.
Results: The findings are expected to highlight how nurses in EDs use ultrasonography on their interventions, its clinical benefits, and its potential to improve patient outcomes and workflow efficiency.
Conclusion: This review will provide evidence-based insights to inform future research, guide training initiatives, and support the integration of ultrasonography into ED nursing practice.
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