PATIENT INFORMATION FOR ULTRASOUND

Ultrasound

Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography, involves exposing part of the body to high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body.

Patient Safety Tips Prior to a diagnostic exam in Radiology

• Please let us know if you have any allergies or adverse reactions to medications.
• Please leave your valuables at home or in your room in the hospital.
• Please let us now if you need interpreting services, this can be arranged for you.

Preparation for the exam

• The technologist will verify your identification and exam requested.
• The preparation for this test will depend on the type of ultrasound procedure your doctor has ordered.  Some preparations include drinking a quart of water before the test to obtain better images.  Your doctor will instruct you.
• If you are having a biopsy, you will be asked to not eat or drink anything past midnight the night before the exam.  Your doctor will instruct you.

During the exam

• The duration of the exam will vary, but the average is about 30-60 minutes.
• The technologist will position you on the exam table, and give you instructions.
• You will have the opportunity to ask the technologists questions.
• A small amount of water-soluble gel is applied to the skin over the area to be examined.
• A hand-held instrument is placed against the gel on your body.  This instrument will be moved across the area being examined.

After the exam

• If you are going home, you may resume normal activities.

If you have any questions, please call the scheduling nurse at 415-353-4030.

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