Common uses include identification of (1, 2) Left ventricular systolic dysfunction (with global or regional wall motion abnormality) Left ventricular regional wall motion abnormality (with reduced or normal systolic function) Elevated left heart filling pressures (enlarged left atrium) Valvular abnormalities Pulmonary edema (vertical B-lines in the lung fields) Pleural effusion Systemic venous congestion (dilated inferior vena cava) Pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade Adequate training in doing brief ultrasound examinations is essential to ensure high image quality and accurate interpretation (2).