Welcome to this e-learning course on Ultrasound Assessment of the Diaphragm

This e-course provides a focused, clinically relevant introduction to using point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) to evaluate diaphragmatic function — especially in anesthesia, critical care, and perioperative medicine.

The e-course is structured according to the I-AIM framework (Indication, Acquisition, Interpretation, Medical Decision-making), which ensures a clear and practical progression from when to use diaphragm ultrasound, to how to acquire images, what they mean, and how to apply the findings clinically.

You will gain a practical understanding of when, why, and how to perform diaphragm ultrasound — and how to use the results in everyday clinical decision-making.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Describe diaphragm anatomy relevant to ultrasound imaging
• Identify key clinical indications for diaphragm PoCUS
• Perform image acquisition using correct probe choice and patient positioning
• Evaluate diaphragmatic motion: normal, reduced, or paradoxical
• Measure and interpret diaphragmatic thickening fraction (TF)
• Assess diaphragmatic excursion using M-mode and alternative techniques
• Apply findings to support decisions in anesthesia and critical care
• Recognize diaphragm dysfunction after brachial plexus block and in critically ill patients