Focused cardiac ultrasound is universally recognised as an appropriate imaging tool for emergencies and critical care. Until now, however, there have been no guidelines for those using the technology.

This has now changed with the launch of the first ever guidelines published online in the Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography. It comprises of 108 "statements" detailing the nature, applications, technique, potential benefits, limitations, clinical integration, education, and certification principles for FoCUS.

The aim of the World Interactive Network Focused on Critical Ultrasound (WINFOCUS) was to develop a multispecialty, evidence-based consensus document on the use of FoCUS typically—but not exclusively—by noncardiologists. Sixteen professional organizations, including the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) and the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI), endorsed the document.