Aplicação do POCUS como estratégia de avaliação cardiovascular em pacientes hipertensos UBS Várzea da Cruz, Bahia

Abstract

Introduction: Arterial hypertension is a common, multifactorial, and difficult-to-control condition in Brazil, with high prevalence among adults and older adults. It is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and premature death. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has emerged as a promising technology, as it allows rapid assessments at the site of care. Objective: This project aims to implement this technology in local clinical practice as an accessible and effective tool to enhance quality of care, enabling the detection of cardiac abnormalities and optimization of therapeutic management. Methodology: The study will be conducted with hypertensive patients from the Várzea da Cruz Primary Health Care Unit, located in the rural area of Feira da Mata, Bahia, Brazil. This is a cross-sectional study with a one-year longitudinal follow-up. Patients will be divided into two groups: one receiving conventional clinical follow-up and the other undergoing complementary evaluation using POCUS with the portable Butterfly iQ+ device. Signs of cardiac dysfunction will be assessed, along with clinical indicators such as blood pressure control, number of referrals, and unfavorable outcomes. Data will be collected using forms developed in Epi Info. Expected results: The developed forms are expected to support the creation of a standardized record to incorporate POCUS into the routine of primary health care. This initiative aims to optimize treatment, reduce mortality and referrals, and strengthen Family Medicine care, especially in remote areas. Final considerations: POCUS is an important assessment tool in the clinical practice of family physicians and may contribute to strengthening primary health care and promoting more resolutive and individualized patient-centered care.