This case report demonstrates the potential utility of
bedside cardiac TTE using modern ultrasound systems
as an initial imaging test in the ED for patients in whom
the clinical suspicion for IE is high. Established primary
goals of bedside EUS in the ED are the detection of pericardial
effusions and the assessment of cardiac contractility,
although this list is now expanding [9]. Advanced
echocardiography techniques are being integrated into a
rapidly growing number of resuscitation ultrasound
protocols [10]. While assessment of cardiac valvular
lesions must still be considered an advanced use of
ultrasound that requires additional training, many EPs
are performing echocardiography exams as part of their
clinical evaluations. As EPs gather experience with this
modality, abnormalities may be identified, and EPs
performing bedside EUS should learn to recognize
normal cardiac anatomy as well as pathologic cardiac
findings.