Computerized Axial Tomography CAT

What does CAT stand for in medical imaging?

Computerized Axial Tomography

What type of images does a CT scanner produce?

2- or 3-dimensional anatomical cross-section x-ray images of body organs.

Name three types of scans performed in the CAT department.

Head, neck, spinal, chest, abdominal, pelvic, and extremity scans.

What is one procedure that may be guided by a CT scan?

CT guided fine needle aspiration (biopsy).

What is required when a contrast medium is used in CAT scans?

The radiologist examines the patient's history to determine if IV contrast medium is required.

What is the name of the contrast medium typically used for abdominal/pelvic CAT scans?

Gastrografin.

When should a CAT scan ideally be booked in relation to radiology procedures involving a contrast medium?

Before radiology procedures that require a contrast medium.

What should the patient's chart include for a CAT scan?

It should include information about whether a contrast medium will be used.

What is the fasting requirement prior to all CAT scans?

3 hours of fasting.

What specific instructions are given for a CT guided biopsy/aspiration?

Patient must have routine PT and APTT lab tests prior to biopsy.

What should patients avoid doing prior to the CAT scan if they have an IV?

Do not disconnect the IV.

What should be included in the requisition for invasive procedures like CAT guided biopsy?

Consent form for invasive procedures.

What should patients do prior to undergoing a CAT scan?

Void prior to the x-ray.

What type of imaging requires special orders regarding oral contrast?

Abdominal/Pelvic CAT scan preparation.

What is the instruction regarding gastrografin before the CAT scan?

Do not refrigerate gastrografin.

What type of preparations are needed for Spine/Head/Chest scans with IV?

NPO 3 hours prior, do not disconnect IV, and patient should void.

What do patients need to do the night before the exam for prep?

Drink a mixture of 10cc gastrografin plus 500cc of non-carbonated juice.

What is required for all patients undergoing CAT scans requiring contrast?

A history review to check if they require IV contrast medium.

What should a nurse be informed of concerning the date and time of the procedure?

The booked date/time should be written on the patient's Kardex.

What additional instruction is given for preparing for a CT guided drainage procedure?

Same as for CT guided biopsy, requires PT and APTT tests.

What is one of the responsibilities of NUC in processing CAT orders?

Complete requisition and transcribe to the diagnostic section of the Kardex.

What is the importance of administrating oral contrast for an abdominal/pelvic CAT scan?

It helps to visualize the organs better during the scan.

What should the NUC do regarding special instructions for contrast mediums?

Flag Kardex with prep instructions for the nurse.

Why is it important not to disconnect an IV just prior to a CAT scan?

An IV infusion of contrast may be needed.

What preparatory step is mentioned for patients undergoing a CT guided biopsy?

NPO 3 hours prior except for oral contrast.