Beck's triad in tamponade can be supported by which bedside imaging modality?

• A. CT Scan
• B. FAST scan
• C. Echocardiography
• D. Nuclear medicine scan

Answer: (B)

Beck's triad suggests tamponade from a pericardial effusion, so rapid confirmation at the bedside is essential. The focused ultrasound FAST exam is designed for quick, bedside assessment and can detect pericardial effusion and signs of tamponade physiology in minutes. This makes it the most practical choice in acutely unstable patients when imaging is needed immediately. While echocardiography is highly accurate for tamponade, FAST is the standard bedside tool used in emergent settings to confirm effusion quickly and guide urgent management. CT is not suitable for unstable patients due to transport delays, and nuclear medicine has no role in this acute scenario.