Technical considerations and applications of point-of-care ultrasound in the NICU

Elsevier

Available online 5 December 2025, 152190

Seminars in PerinatologyAuthor links open overlay panel, , , , , , Abstract

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is an increasingly utilized bedside imaging modality in the neonatal intensive care unit, offering procedural, diagnostic and therapeutic guidance for clinicians. This narrative review explores the key technical aspects of POCUS use in neonates and the expanding body of research supporting its use for both procedural guidance and diagnostic applications. Despite its growing potential to enhance neonatal care, widespread implementation remains challenged by lack of consensus and guidance related to training, credentialing, quality assurance and assessment of competency. A framework for curriculum development is proposed to support the integration of POCUS into neonatology practice. As its role continues to expand, addressing these challenges will be critical to optimizing the benefits of POCUS and improving neonatal outcomes.

AbbreviationsNICU

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

POCUS

Point-of-Care Ultrasound

RCT

Randomized Controlled Trial

PAL

Peripheral Arterial Cannula

CVC

Central Venous Catheter

UVC

Umbilical Venous Catheter

PICC

Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter

CPAP

continuous positive airway pressure

AAP

American Academy of Pediatrics

RDS

Respiratory Distress Syndrome, TTN, Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn

BPD

Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

NEC

Necrotizing Enterocolitis

IVH

Intracranial Hemorrhage

© 2025 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc.

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