How does a nurse prepare a patient for a CT scan?

Depending on which part of your body is being scanned, you may be asked to: Take off some or all of your clothing and wear a hospital gown. Remove metal objects, such as a belt, jewelry, dentures and eyeglasses, which might interfere with image results. Refrain from eating or drinking for a few hours before your scan.

Do nurses perform CT scans?

Radiology nurses are also referred to as radiologic nurses or medical imaging nurses. Some of the most easily recognized diagnostic imaging tests include x-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs.

What is the special consideration before the patient will undergo CT scan with contrast?

You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for several hours before your scan, especially if a contrast material will be used in your exam. You should inform your physician of any medications you are taking and if you have any allergies, especially to contrast materials.

What is the medical term for computerized tomography?

Computed tomography: An x-ray procedure that uses the help of a computer to produce a detailed picture of a cross section of the body. Also called a CT scan or CAT scan.

What is computerized tomography used for?

A computed tomography (CT or CAT) scan allows doctors to see inside your body. It uses a combination of X-rays and a computer to create pictures of your organs, bones, and other tissues. It shows more detail than a regular X-ray.

What’s the difference between a CT scan and an MRI?

Both types of scan have similar uses, but they produce images in different ways. A CT scan uses X-rays, whereas an MRI scan uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves. CT scans are more common and less expensive, but MRI scans produce more detailed images.

What cost more MRI or CT scan?

Cost: CT scans are almost half the price of MRIs. The average computed tomography scan costs around $1,200 while an MRI is about $2,000. Speed: CT scans take much less time than MRIs. The exact time required depends on whether you need a contrast dye for the procedure, but MRIs always require more time for the scan.

What are the disadvantages of a CT scan?

In general, a CT scan has the advantage of short study time (15 to 20 minutes) with high quality images. However, disadvantages include the need for ra- diation exposure and the use of a contrast material (dye) in most cases, which may make it inappropriate for patients with significant kidney problems.

Is CT scan harmful for body?

At the low doses of radiation a CT scan uses, your risk of developing cancer from it is so small that it can’t be reliably measured. Because of the possibility of an increased risk, however, the American College of Radiology advises that no imaging exam be done unless there is a clear medical benefit.

What can you not do after a CT scan?

You shouldn’t experience any after-effects from a CT scan and can usually go home soon afterwards. You can eat and drink, go to work and drive as normal. If a contrast was used, you may be advised to wait in the hospital for up to an hour to make sure you don’t have a reaction to it.

What are the side effects of head CT scan?

Side effects and risks for a cranial CT scan involve discomfort, exposure to radiation, and allergic reaction to the contrast dye. Discuss any concerns with your doctor before the test so you can assess the potential risks and benefits for your medical condition.

What can a CT scan detect in the head?

CT scanning of the head is typically used to detect: bleeding, brain injury and skull fractures in patients with head injuries. bleeding caused by a ruptured or leaking aneurysm in a patient with a sudden severe headache. a blood clot or bleeding within the brain shortly after a patient exhibits symptoms of a stroke.

What should I do before a head CT scan?

Food and drink : If your doctor ordered a brain CT scan without contrast, you can eat, drink and take your prescribed medications prior to your exam. If your doctor ordered a CT of the brain with contrast, do not eat anything three hours prior to your brain CT. You are encouraged to drink clear liquids.

Can you get sick from a CT scan?

The risks are related to allergic and non-allergic reactions to the injected contrast. Minor reactions to the IV contrast used for CT scan may include nausea, vomiting, headache or dizziness, which are usually of short duration and usually require no treatment.

What happens if you eat before a CT scan with contrast?

Why am I not allowed to eat before the CT exam with contrast? If you have food on your stomach, and get an injection of contrast, you could become nauseated. Aside from your discomfort, there is the danger of throwing up while lying down, which could cause the vomit to enter your lungs.

How do you flush contrast dye out of your system?

If you received an injection of contrast dye, you should drink six to eight glasses of water to help flush it out of your system. Your study will be read by an imaging physician who specializes in the interpretation of CT scans. The results will be sent to your physician, usually within 48 hours.