factors available to calculate the number of Rads to which she was exposed.
Fluoroscopic time, generally 3 1/2 minutes, should be noted. Fluoroscopic units have
timers that only go up to 5 minutes. But, you can reset the time if the procedure takes
longer than 5 minutes.
c. Contrast Media. Contrast media should be documented, especially if
anything goes wrong, such as a reaction to the contrast media. The type of media
(barium, iodine solution, etc.), the amount (as exactly as possible), and the means of
administration (oral, IV, tablets, injected in the muscle, etc.) should be indicated. Any
unusual occurrences, such as a reaction to the contrast media, falling off the table,
fainting upon standing, should also be noted.
d. Information Provided to the Patient. You will need to explain a number of
things to the patient regarding the procedure and protective measures. However,
diagnosis and prognosis are not your responsibilities.
(1) Procedures. You will need to explain all procedures to the patient,
beforehand. "I'm going to inject a needle under the knee cap and inject some dye." You
need to tell the patient only as much as he or she absolutely needs to know. Telling
more than is necessary may only stress, confuse, and or frighten the patient.
(2) Protection. You will also need to explain about radiation protection. You
might say something like: "You need to wear a lead apron so that we can protect your
body from radiation." You should answer all questions that the patient might have, to the
best of your ability but always limiting yourself to your area of responsibility, Questions
regarding procedure and radiation protection are, however, within your area of
expertise.
(3) Diagnosis and Prognosis. As stated, you should not discuss any
aspects of the patient's diagnosis and prognosis. You should, instead, refer the patient
to the attending physician for such questions. It is totally inappropriate to say, for
example, "Gee, Mrs. Jones, it looks like you have an ulcer." If the patient asks, "Did I
break my leg?" Your response should be, "I'm sorry, Mr. Smith, but Dr. Green will be in
to answer your questions, in just a few minutes." If the patient asks, "How long do you
think it'll take to heal?" You should reply that you are not in a position to respond. If the
patient insists on a response, refer them to whoever is treating them. Some radiologists
will not discuss anything with a patient, preferring to leave all matter for discussions to
the attending physician.
e. The Radiographic Report. The radiographic report, signed by the
radiologist, becomes an integral part of the patient's medical record. Three copies of
the report are made: one for the physician, another for the medical records department,
and another, for the x-ray clinic.
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