BE Flashcards
What does a barium enema examination demonstrate? & when is it performed?
The large bowel (colon)
This examination is performed when patients have a change in bowel habits, experience abdominal pain or rectal bleeding, or if diverticulitis or polyps are suspected.
What is required for successful barium enema examination preparation?
Intestines must be completely empty
Typically involves a restricted diet for two days, taking a laxative the evening before, and fasting after midnight.
What type of gown should patients wear during a barium enema examination?
A hospital gown without metal snaps
Metal can interfere with the accuracy of the images.
Who performs the barium enema examination?
A radiographer and a radiologist
The radiographer prepares the patient and takes initial images, while the radiologist interprets the images.
What is the purpose of liquid barium in a barium enema?
To allow radiographic visualization of the gastrointestinal tract
Barium coats the walls of the lower digestive tract, casting shadows for x-ray recording.
What sensations might a patient experience during the barium administration?
Pressure and fullness in the bowel
Patients may also have an urge to defecate.
What is a double-contrast barium enema examination?
An examination that introduces air along with the barium solution
This allows for more detailed images of the colon.
What should patients do after the barium enema examination?
Expel the barium and increase water consumption
Barium may make stools white for a few days, which is normal.
True or False: A radiologist specializes in the diagnostic interpretation of medical images.
True
Fill in the blank: The radiographer will determine the amount of _______ necessary to produce a diagnostically useful image.
[radiation]
What should a woman of childbearing age disclose before a barium enema examination?
Possibility of pregnancy and date of last menstrual period
This is important because the examination exposes the pelvic area to radiation.
What happens to the barium after the examination?
It is expelled through the toilet facilities
The radiographer may take another x-ray image to check for remaining barium.
What sensation may patients feel during the introduction of air in a double-contrast examination?
Cramps or bloating sensation
Patients should try not to expel the air or barium.
How does barium behave in the colon during the examination?
It clings to the walls rather than filling the colon
The air expands the walls of the colon for better imaging.
What will your personal physician do after reviewing the radiographs?
Receive a report of the findings and discuss results with you
They will also discuss any further procedures if necessary.
What is the expected change in stool color after a barium enema?
Stools may appear white for a few days
This is a normal reaction to the barium.
What should patients do if they experience constipation after the examination?
Tell their doctor
They may be advised to increase water consumption or take a laxative.
What happens to the radiation exposure during the barium enema examination?
It passes through the patient immediately
Similar to radiation produced during any other x-ray procedure.
Imaging the colon types
Colonoscopy
Virtual colonoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy
Barium enema
Colonoscopy
Performed by
Diagnostic or therapeutic
What is it for?
What does it require?
Performed by physician
Diagnostic and therapeutic
95% sensitivity for colon lesions
Requires: preparation
Virtual colonoscopy
What is it and is it diagnostic or therapeutic?
Five minute CT procedure
Diagnostic only
Sigmoidoscopy
Performed by
Diagnostic or therapeutic
Performed by physician using a sigmoidoscope
Diagnostic and therapeutic
Barium enema
Performed by radiology with contrast material in colon
Diagnostic only
COLON preparation
For?
Wht kind of pts?
Required for what kind of exams?
Used for bowel cleansing and to promote defecation
Outpatient and can be self-administered
Required for contrast, barium enema exam & endoscopy
Typical preps include
Stool softener – oil base solution
Dietary restrictions – low residue diet
Purgation – laxatives
Hydration plenty- of clear liquids 24 hours before procedure
Why do you need hydration for colon preparation?
Maintain bodies, fluid levels and blood pressure and it can provide a small degree of nutrition
Cleansing enemas
Used to
When are they administered?
Relieve constipation
Administered to patients the morning of exam