ABSTRACT
The versatility of transthoracic echo means that it can play a useful role in a diverse range of clinical situations. Clinicians requesting echo studies should be encouraged to include specific questions with their request, as this provides a clear focus for the echo study and ensures that the sonographer can address the specific concerns of the clinician. Echo should be performed immediately if acute cardiac tamponade is suspected following an interventional procedure or if a patient presents with likely acute pulmonary embolism and echo is likely to help in deciding whether to administer thrombolysis. The British Society of Echocardiography has produced a guidance document, entitled A Standard Transthoracic Echocardiogram, which provides a framework for performing a comprehensive transthoracic echo study. In the study summary, sum up the key findings of the echo study and place the findings in a clinical context with particular reference to the clinical question posed by the referring clinician.
