Ultrasound Preparation and What to Do During the Exam

Overview

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. Preparation can vary depending on the area being examined.

Some ultrasound exams need an empty stomach to improve image quality. Others need a full bladder so the technologist can see pelvic structures more clearly. Follow the instructions given when your appointment is booked.

What You Need to Know

• Some abdominal ultrasounds require fasting.
• Eating can increase bowel gas and may make it harder to see certain organs clearly.
• Even if your gallbladder has been removed, fasting may still be needed because food can create gas that affects the images.
• Some pelvic ultrasounds require a full bladder.
• A full bladder helps move bowel out of the way and improves visibility.
• If your bladder becomes painfully full, do not empty it completely unless instructed.
• Regular medications can usually be taken before ultrasound.
• If you are fasting, take medication with a small sip of water unless you were told otherwise.
• If your medication must be taken with food, take it after your scan.
• If you are diabetic and fasting is required, tell the booking clerk before your appointment.
• Tell the sonographer right away if you are uncomfortable during the exam.

Before You Book

Let the clinic know if:

• You are diabetic
• You take medications that must be taken with food
• You cannot fast safely
• You have trouble keeping a full bladder
• You have mobility or accessibility needs
• You are pregnant and booking an obstetrical ultrasound
• You are unsure which ultrasound exam was requested

If you are diabetic and your exam requires fasting, the clinic may try to schedule your appointment earlier in the day and provide timing instructions.

How to Prepare

Follow the preparation instructions provided for your specific ultrasound. Patient Prep (Ultrasounds)

Depending on the exam, you may be asked to:

• Fast for a certain amount of time
• Avoid smoking or chewing gum before the exam
• Drink water before the exam
• Arrive with a full bladder
• Change into a gown
• Take your regular medications with a small sip of water
• Wait until after the scan to take medications that require food

If your bladder becomes painfully full before the exam, you may partially empty it by about ½ to 1 cup to reduce discomfort. Do not fully empty your bladder unless staff tell you to.

During the Exam

A sonographer will perform the ultrasound. They may apply gel to the skin and move a handheld device over the area being examined.

You may feel pressure during the exam, especially if the area is tender or if your bladder is full. Tell the sonographer if you are uncomfortable. The sonographer may be able to adjust the pressure, change your position, pause briefly, or stop the exam if needed.

Sonographers cannot provide a diagnosis or explain results during the appointment. Your results are reviewed and sent to your referring healthcare provider.

Pregnancy Ultrasound Notes

Recording pregnancy ultrasound exams is not allowed. Printed still images may be provided.

Safety Notes

Ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation. The main preparation concerns are usually related to fasting, bladder filling, medication timing, and comfort during the exam.

If you have diabetes, fasting requires extra care. Tell the clinic when booking so staff can help time your appointment and instructions appropriately.

When to Contact GNMI

Contact GNMI before your appointment if:

• You are diabetic and were told to fast
• You are unsure whether you need to fast
• You do not know how much water to drink
• You cannot tolerate a full bladder
• Your medication must be taken with food
• You are unsure whether to avoid smoking or chewing gum
• You need accessibility support
• You have questions about pregnancy ultrasound images