How to Prepare for Your Medical Imaging Exam
Preparing for your MRI, CT Scan, Ultrasound, X-Ray, Nuclear Medicine, or other medical imaging? Make sure to follow the fasting and other directions specific to your exam.
Many of the exams performed at Doctors Imaging require preparation prior to the exam. If you are having any of the tests listed below, please follow the corresponding instructions.
* Valuables (jewelry, watches, etc.) are not permitted in the examination room. For the security of your valuables, please leave them at home.
Exam Preparation Instructions
To view the forms listed below, you will need Adobe Reader. You may download Adobe Reader for free at www.adobe.com. Please bring your completed forms with you to our office at the time of your visit.
MRI
Great care should be taken when being brought into the MRI exam room due to the powerful magnetic field surrounding the equipment. For your safety, Doctors Imaging has a screening process that begins when you first contact our scheduling specialist and continues until the technologist determines you are ready and safe to enter the exam room.
Medical History – Be prepared to disclose detailed information in regards to your medical history including but not limited to surgical history, possible foreign metal in the body, or medical implanted devices. Sometimes these questions are intentionally redundant.
Implanted Medical Devices – For some patients with implanted medical devices, wallet cards or other documents verifying their MRI compatibility will need to be obtained.
Claustrophobia – If you are claustrophobic or think you may feel overly anxious and confined in the MRI unit, you may request to be scheduled to receive a mild sedative. If a sedative is issued be sure to have transportation arrangements because we cannot administer sedation to a patient who is driving.
Arrival Time – You will be asked to arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled exam time in order to fill out paperwork and speak with the technologist prior to the time of your exam.
Clothing – Dress in clothing that is easy to remove, without metal, and leave your jewelry at home. Many exams require a modest gown to be worn.
MRI Brain Prep – If you are scheduled for an MRI Brain exam, eye makeup may NOT be worn.
MRCP Prep – If you are scheduled for an MRCP exam fasting 8 hours prior to the exam is required.
CT/CTA
Based on each individual patient’s clinical history and diagnosis the preparation for the exam may vary. Please contact our office for detailed instructions based on your specific need (504) 883-8111.
ULTRASOUND
Ultrasound preparations vary based on the specific exam being done. Below you will see the 4 different preps with the procedures following. If you are unsure which prep is appropriate for you, please call 883-8111.
No Preparation Required
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Fasting 8-10 hours prior to the exam
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Full Bladder Preparation (directions below)
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Instructions:
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Infants
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X-Ray
No preparation required.