Reporting focused lung ultrasound studies in critical care. Recommendations from the College of Intensive Care Medicine Ultrasound Special Interest Group.

For focused lung ultrasound, an extended bilateral four-quadrant approach is recommended. Acquired images and loops should be clearly labelled identifying left or right, anterior or lateral and inferior, superior or posterior locations. 2D loops should be of sufficient length to clearly demonstrate pleural sliding, complemented by M-mode stills if required. Reports should provide information regarding the presence or absence of an intact pleural interface, the presence or absence and the size and nature of pleural collections as well as any parenchymal artefacts or consolidation, in all examined locations. It is important to use internationally accepted terminology to describe findings, and it is also recommended to conclude the report with a clear summary that can be interpreted by healthcare providers without specific training in lung ultrasound.