Problem-solving combined with ultrasonography: a strategy for internists to improve case management and reduce diagnostic errors

Abstract

The rate of errors in the diagnostic process is reported in the literature to be between 10% and 15%. Most of these errors are various forms of cognitive errors, which can be reduced by using a problem-solving approach. Here we present two cases showing how a problem-solving approach integrated with ultrasound information, often available to internists using point-of-care instruments, and clinical feed-back can help to reach the correct diagnosis and aid the management of complex cases of internal medicine.

Keywords

• abdominal ultrasonography, problem solving, diagnostic errors.