How do patients feel about chest ultrasound procedures?

A new study has shed light on how patients feel about chest ultrasound procedures. A chest ultrasound uses sound waves to create pictures of the lungs and chest. Doctors are using chest ultrasound more often to help diagnose and manage some lung diseases. 

What did the study look at? 

This study looked at how people living with lung conditions felt after having an ultrasound of their chest. 

Patient representative Stefano Pavenello helped plan the study and develop the questions for participants. Stefano is a member of the ELF Pulmonary Fibrosis Patient Advisory Group and the Transplant Working Group. 

The researchers asked 37 patients to complete a survey. They also interviewed three patients to learn more about their experiences.  

The patients lived in England, Denmark, Italy, Malta and the USA. They had different procedures, including: 

• a pleural tap (removing fluid or air from around the lung using a needle) 

• having a chest drain put in 

• having a catheter put in 

• having a lung biopsy.  

What did the study find? 

Patients said it was important to: 

• have enough time to talk to their doctor before the procedure 

• be able to ask questions 

• understand what would happen during the procedure. 

Most patients were happy with their overall experience. They said clear communication from healthcare professionals helped them feel calm and reassured. 

Patients were happier when the procedure was done in a private room rather than on a hospital ward. 

Many patients also appreciated having clear guidance about: 

• looking after themselves after the procedure 

• managing pain 

• knowing who to contact if they needed help. 

Two patients who had chest drains inserted said they found them uncomfortable. They were worried about accidentally pulling them out. 

Why is this important? 

This small study helps doctors understand what matters to patients during chest procedures. 

It shows that clear information, good communication and privacy can improve the patient experience. 

Because this was a small study, the researchers say more research is needed to understand the experiences of a wider range of people with lung conditions. 

Read the original research paper:  

Title: Patient perspectives on ultrasound-guided interventions in respiratory medicine: an international, mixed-methods study  

Link Patient perspectives on ultrasound-guided interventions in respiratory medicine: an international, mixed-methods study | European Respiratory Society  

Useful resources: 

Bronchoscopy