FAST exam (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma)

The FAST exam (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) is a quick ultrasound test used in emergency situations to check for internal bleeding or injuries in trauma patients. It involves using a portable ultrasound device to examine key areas like the chest and abdomen. The goal is to identify fluid, such as blood, that may have accumulated around vital organs or within body cavities, helping medical teams decide on urgent treatment or surgery. The FAST exam is non-invasive, fast, and valuable for rapid assessment in critical cases, improving patient outcomes.