Preparing for an ultrasound scan
Usually, when a doctor recommends an ultrasound scan, they will explain why the procedure is necessary and how best to get ready for it. Pre-examination preparation generally depends on the area of the body that will be examined; however, it is not always necessary to follow a set protocol.
Eating, drinking, and taking drugs are all perfectly acceptable both before and after an ultrasound examination, unless specifically directed otherwise.
In certain cases, an 8–12 hour fast will be necessary (before to an abdomen or vascular ultrasound). This is to prevent issues with sound waves coming into contact with undigested food in the stomach, which could cause fuzzy images.
Eat a fat-free and/or low-fiber meal the night before, followed by a brief period of fasting (for up to 6 hours before the scan), if the digestive system or organs such as the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, or spleen are to be checked. This is done to reduce the amount of gas in the digestive tract, which might interfere with scan results by producing images that are difficult to understand. Nonetheless, you can continue to drink water and other required medications during this pre-examination time.
In other cases, a doctor might advise a patient to stay hydrated in the hours before the scan and hold their urine in order to make sure their bladder is full when the scan happens (this might be necessary for a pelvic ultrasound, to see an unborn child, or to check on the health of the uterus and ovaries in general). This makes it easier to see certain areas during the examination, including the bladder. An enema may occasionally be administered before to a scan operation in order to cleanse the colon.
Before undergoing an ultrasound scan, it is crucial to disclose to the examining physician or radiographer all medications — prescription, over-the-counter, and supplement — that you are taking. Giving these away can be quite helpful in the diagnosis process.
Depending on the area of the body being inspected, a person may occasionally be required to take off certain articles of clothes and put on a medical gown that is supplied. To ensure comfort, a doctor could also advise dressing loosely on the day of the procedure.
If a patient needs medication to help them calm during the surgery, a sedative can be given (via an IV / intravenous line via the back of the hand or through a vein in the arm).
