What does the FAST exam assess in a trauma patient?

The FAST exam, or Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma, is specifically designed to assess for the presence of fluid, particularly blood, in the abdominal cavity of trauma patients. This quick and non-invasive ultrasound technique allows medical professionals to quickly determine whether there is internal bleeding or other fluid accumulation that might require urgent intervention.

By focusing on areas where blood typically accumulates in cases of trauma, such as the peritoneal cavity and the spaces around the liver and spleen, the FAST exam helps to guide immediate clinical decisions about the need for surgical intervention or further diagnostic imaging. It is especially valuable in emergency settings where rapid assessment can be crucial for patient outcomes.