TABLE 3.
Summary of Recommendations
| No. | Topic of Recommendation | Strength of Recommendation | Degree of Consensus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Outcomes | |||
| 1 | Ultrasound reduces risk of serious complications | Very Good | Strong |
| 2 | Ultrasound avoids attempting paracentesis with insufficient fluid | Very Good | Strong |
| 3 | Ultrasound improves overall procedure success rates | Very Good | Strong |
| Ultrasound reduces cost and length of stay | N/A | N/A | |
|
| |||
| Technique | |||
| 4 | Assess volume and location of intraperitoneal free fluid | Very Good | Strong |
| 5 | Identify needle insertion site | Very Good | Strong |
| 6 | Use color flow Doppler to identify abdominal wall vessels | Very Good | Strong |
| 7 | Evaluate needle insertion site in multiple planes | Very Good | Strong |
| 8 | Mark the needle insertion site immediately before the procedure | Very Good | Strong |
| 9 | Consider real-time ultrasound guidance for small or difficult-to-access fluid collection | Very Good | Strong |
|
| |||
| Training | |||
| 10 | Dedicated training sessions recommended | Very Good | Strong |
| 11 | When available, use simulation to train | Very Good | Strong |
| 12 | Demonstration of competence before independently attempting the procedure | Very Good | Strong |
N/A = Statements without recommendations due to lack of agreement or uncertainty