Categories: Urgent Care

How Should I Prepare for a CT Scan?

There are certain things that one can do to prepare for a CT scan properly. This can help to minimize any anxiety that is experienced beforehand and ensure a successful diagnostic process. In addition to these preparation tips, it is important to follow all instructions provided by the medical professionals performing the CT scan

Preparing for a CT scan: 5 important things to know

Individuals can prepare for a CT scan by wearing comfortable and loose clothing, leaving all metal objects at home, and notifying the medical provider of all medical information (i.e. medication, previous procedures, etc.). 

Wear comfortable and loose clothing

The medical provider may provide a gown to wear during the CT scan, although not all providers do this. It is best to wear loose clothing that is comfortable. Depending on the purpose of the CT scan, it can take anywhere from 10 minutes to up to an hour. Subsequently, it is important to be comfortable during the diagnostic procedure. 

Leave metal objects at home

Metal objects can affect the clarity of the CT scan images. Subsequently, patients will be asked to remove any metal that may be worn. This commonly includes jewelry, hairpins, eyewear, etc. The medical professional may also ask the patient to remove any hearing aids or dental devices that may affect the results of the CT scan. 

Although visiting an urgent care center is typically for unplanned matters, if at all possible, it is advised to leave any additional items at home, such as purses, electronics, etc. 

Avoid eating or drinking for several hours before

Depending on the purpose of the CT scan, the medical provider may ask that patients do not eat for several hours before the scheduled CT scan. By understanding this ahead of time, patients can prepare for a larger meal the day before and after the CT scan. Although it can be tempting to eat or drink beforehand, it is important not to as it could mess up the results of the scan. 

Notify the doctor of all medical information

It is essential to notify the medical provider of all medications, underlying conditions, and procedures that have been performed. It is also important to notify them of allergies, as well. This helps to ensure that the safest possible measures are taken for the CT scan. 

Remain occupied the night before

Many patients deal with minor anxiety before they have their first CT scan. One great way to deal with the anxiety is to simply remain occupied prior to the procedure, such as by playing a board game with family members, going to the movies with a significant other, etc. 

Learn more about CT scan preparation

Here at our urgent care center, we offer CT scans to determine if there are any injuries existing. Additionally, the scan can determine the extent of the injuries after an accident occurs. It is encouraged to come in or call us today to learn more about CT scans and get the care that is needed. 

Request an appointment here: https://tx-urgentcare.com or call Texas Urgent Care & Imaging Center at (832) 941-1894 for an appointment in our New Caney office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: CT Scan in New Caney, TX.

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