There are various kinds of radiological investigations and the preparation may be different for the each of them. There are general instructions and specific instructions. This article discusses general instructions. Specific instructions will discussed in a different article.
General instructions:
1. Referral Order / prescription from a doctor:
A written referral order from your doctor is required before any radiological investigation. These are medically supervised test and your doctor weighs the risk and benefits before ordering them. Without prescription you may end up with a wrong investigation.
2. Taking an appointment:
Always check with the radiology clinic about the preparation required and book an appointment. For ex. "Ultrasound abdomen" may require fasting or "CT scan with contrast" may require fasting in addition to blood test like serum creatinine (it tells your radiologist about the status of your kidney function). Some basic investigation like X-Ray can be done as "walk-in" depending on the policy of the radiology clinic.
3. X-rays and Pregnancy
For women of child bearing age (13-45), all x-ray, CT exams, MRI and Nuclear Medicine exams are best scheduled between day one and day fourteen following the start of the menstrual cycle, unless the chance of pregnancy can be excluded. All radiology centers will have a questionnaire for the same.
4. Medical History:
Please make sure you carry your medical history file, previous reports and records of previous treatment and surgery. If possible write down about your problem in chronological order.
5. Previous radiological investigations:
Make arrangements to bring all prior x-rays, CTs, MRIs, Sonograms, Mammograms, etc., so that radiologist can make comparisons and provide the best interpretation of your new studies.
6. Digital Record:
Enquire about getting your examination images on a "Dicom" format on a CD/DVD. There may be an additional charges and worth opting for.
7. Miscellaneous:
a. Avoid wearing lots of cosmetics; perfumes, hair sprays, body piercings and jewelry, for these may interfere with getting a quality exam.
b. Keep your valuables at home.
c. If you are anxious, bring a friend or loved one. They may not be able to be with you during your exam, but just knowing that they are close by in the lobby area will help tremendously.
d. If you are undergoing a biopsy or contrast administration it may be important accompany a relative or friend who can drive/accompany you back home.
e. In case fasting is not required; avoid foods and beverages that may make you anxious such as caffeinated beverages, high sugar foods, alcohol, and high-energy bars.
References:
1. http://www.radiologyinfo.org
2. http://www.roseradiology.com
3. http://washingtonradiology.com
4. https://www.univrad.com
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