Computed Tomography (CT)

Abdominal Pelvic and Liver

Oral contrast is given on arrival in the Radiology Department.

NOTE: Peripheral IV, Broviac, Hickman, and Infusapot catheters are acceptable for low osmolar contrast media IV. Infusaports should be accessed before the patient arrives in the Radiology Department. 

Iodinated Contrast Study: Check allergy history. If the patient is allergic and contrast needs to be given, then an oral corticosteroid and oral antihistamine premedication preparation can be given. These medications are ordered by the referring physician. This regimen suggested for children by the American College of Radiology (ACR) in their 2013 Manual for Contrast Administration is as follows:

• Prednisone    0.5-0.7 mg/kg PO (up to 50 mg) at 13 hours, 7 hours and 1 hour prior to contrast injection

• Diphenhydramine 1.25 mg/kg PO (up to 50 mg) 1 hour prior to contrast injection

Appropriate intravenous doses may be substituted for patients who cannot ingest PO medication.

Only CT with contrast requires fasting 3 hours prior to exam.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

No Special Preparation Instructions

• Abscess Search Pelvis

• Abscess Search Upper

• Appendix

• Ascites Search

• Carotid

• Chest Wall (mark effusion)

• Endovaginal

• Graft (Hemodialysis Access)

• Groin

• Hernia/ Muscle Soft Tissue

• Hips

• Kidney

• Liver

• Liver Doppler

• Muscle Soft Tissue

• Pancreas Transplant

NPO/Nothing by mouth after midnight (min 6 - 8 hours)

• Abdomen

• Aorta

• Bile Ducts

• Gallbladder

32 oz. of fluid one hour before appointment timE
(patient is not to void)

• Pelvic

As ordered by referring physician

• Renal and Biopsy

Mammography

• Do not wear deodorant, powder or lotion under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the exam.

• Obtain any prior outside mammograms and bring to your appointment so the radiologist may detect subtle changes on mammogram.

Bone Densitometry (DEXA)

Recommend to stop taking any calcium supplements and Vitamin D two days prior to exam.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

All Body MRI

Routine Diet

Ultrasound

No Special Preparation Instructions

• Aorta
• Abdominal
• Carotid Arteries
• Chest, Chest Wall
• Head

NPO / Nothing by Mouth

• 0 - 6 Months    NPO 2 hours
• 6 - 24 Months  NPO 4 hours
• 2 - 18 Years      NPO after midnight or minimum of 4 hours

Consider checking gallbladder to see if distended even if NPO requirements not met. If the gallbladder is contracted, then the patient can be rescheduled or the patient can wait the appropriate NPO time.

• Bile Duct
• Gallbladder
• Liver
• Pancreas

Urinary Bladder

Bladder must be full. Two to three glasses of water, 1 hour prior to the study without voiding prior to the exam.