Ultrasound: advantages, disadvantages, and controversies.

Ultrasound (US) is a safe, noninvasive, diagnostic tool with widespread applications in health care. In ambulatory care, especially in obstetrics and gynecology, NPs are often the providers designated to perform US studies. This raises questions about informed consent, standards of care, and training and qualifications of those performing US studies. This article addresses these questions as they apply to NP practice, and it discusses the advantages and disadvantages of ultrasound in a variety of diagnostic situations.