Contrast Media Flashcards
What is contrast media?
A substance introduced into the body that is radiopaque and is used to outline organs and structures within the body
What types of contrast agents should be used for upper and lower GI exams?
Positive and Negative contrast
What are positive contrast?
Barium or Gastrografin
What are negative contrasts?
Air
If the patient is suspected to have a perforation of the bowel what contrast should be used?
Gastrographin
What does a BE series include?
Fluoroscopy and several radiographs taken before, during and after the introduction of contrast material
What are the types of enemas?
NAME?
What are basic BE instructions given to patients before the exam?
NAME?
What foods are included in a low residue diet?
No milk, meat, eggs, fruit or vegetables
What is purgatation?
When the patient is prescribed laxatives to promote emptying of the colon
What is over hydration when it comes to BE prep?
Patients are instructed to follow a clear liquid diet 24 hours prior to the exam
How are cleansing enema a part of BE prep?
As many as 3 cleansing enema should be done the morning of the exam
How is the barium solution prepared?
Contrast media is mixed with water that’s 105 degrees
If cramping occurs while the BE is introduced what should be done?
Tell the patient to inhale and exhale slowly and deeply and to try to relax
How does barium or gastrographin look on an image?
The same, white
What is viscosity?
They physical property of liquids and how thick they are
What are double contrast barium enemas used for?
Detection of polyps, history of colorectal cancer or rectal bleeding
What two contrasts are used in double contrast BE’s?
Solution barium and air/carbon dioxide
What is air used for in a double contrast BE?
To expand the colon
What are important patient concerns with a BE?
- keep the tip firmly in the rectum
- relax abdominal muscles to reduce pressure
- use deep breathing to prevent spasm and cramps
- try to take the patient’s attention away from the enema
What procedures should patient’s take post BE?
Increase fluid intake and dietary fiber
What is a UGI?
Upper Gi series that includes visualizing the terminal esophagus, stomach and proximal small intestine
What does an Upper GI Series include?
Fluoroscopy and a series of radiographs taken before during and after the introduction of contrast material
What is an esophagram?
Imaging where only the esophagus is visualized
How are images taken for an esophagram?
Taken while the patient swallows the contrast mixture