FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma)

FAST, or Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma, is a quick diagnostic procedure used in emergency situations to assess patients for internal injuries, particularly after accidents. It utilizes ultrasound technology to create images of the body, allowing medical personnel to quickly check for internal bleeding or damage to organs. The process is non-invasive and can be performed at the bedside, providing immediate information that helps guide treatment decisions in critical situations, ultimately improving patient outcomes by enabling timely interventions.