Procedure and ultrasound cases on the ABEM exam

Use ABEM’s own lists, and have one script you can apply to any procedure.

Last reviewed October 2026. Details change — check ABEM’s site for the latest.

Procedures

ABEM says a successful candidate describes indications, contraindications and potential complications, prepares for the procedure, shows technical proficiency, and provides post-procedure management (ABEM scoring). The procedures that may appear are on ABEM’s Procedures List (content page).

One script for any procedure:

  1. Why now (indication), and why not (contraindications).
  2. Consent: benefits, the main risks, alternatives.
  3. Preparation: equipment, positioning, monitoring, sedation or anesthesia if relevant, time-out.
  4. Key steps and landmarks, including how you confirm success.
  5. Complications you watch for, and the aftercare and follow-up.

Ultrasound

ABEM says you obtain images on a standardized patient while the examiner operates the machine, interpret ultrasound videos, and explain the study to the patient. You should be able to fix a suboptimal image with respect to mode, gain and depth (scoring, content). Work through every view on ABEM’s Ultrasound List, including probe position and orientation, and practice describing normal anatomy before pathology.

Keep going

Put this into a weekly rhythm with the prep guide.

Common questions

Which procedures can be tested?

ABEM publishes a Procedures List (updated April 2025) and an Ultrasound List on its Certifying Exam content page. Use those lists as your checklist.

Do I need to know the specific ultrasound machine?

No. ABEM says you do not need to know the specific machine; the examiner adjusts the settings, but you should be able to troubleshoot a poor image with respect to mode, gain, depth and similar settings.

Is the ultrasound done on a real person?

ABEM says you acquire images on a standardized patient with the examiner operating the machine controls, and you interpret ultrasound videos.

Practice your explanations

Talking through indications, risks and aftercare is a speaking skill. Rehearse it with a DOME practice case.

See how DOME works →Browse practice cases

Pricing

Educational only — not medical or career advice. DOME is not affiliated with or endorsed by the American Board of Emergency Medicine (ABEM). Facts here are summarized from abem.org; ABEM’s pages are the final word.

Sources