Imaging of Special Needs Patients Flashcards
Name the four types of conditions that classify patients as having special needs.
Physical, medical, developmental, and cognitive conditions.
Why might imaging techniques need modifications for patients with special needs?
To ensure diagnostically acceptable images.
Are patients with gag reflexes considered special needs?
Yes
Who are considered patients with specific needs?
Pediatric
Endodontic
Edentulous
Pregnant patients
Patients with infections
What is the gag reflex?
An involuntary effort to vomit due to stimulation of the soft palate or posterior dorsum of the tongue.
What is the purpose of the gag reflex?
To act as a protective mechanism to clear airway obstruction.
Common areas that can provoke gag reflex include:
Posterior areas of the Mandible and Maxilla
Which tongue position help reduce the gag reflex?
Ensure the tongue is relaxed.
What should a patient do before receptor placement to reduce gag reflex?
Swallow
Why avoid informing the patient about the gag reflex?
The patient becomes more conscious which causes involuntary movements
How should the receptor be placed for a gag reflex-prone patient?
Parallel to the occlusal plane.
What adjustment can be made to receptor placement?
Rotate the receptor as needed once the desired area is reached.
What breathing technique can help mitigate the gag reflex?
Encourage nasal breathing because mouth breathing will aggravate gag reflex.
What task can distract patients to reduce the gag reflex?
Ask the patient to suspend their arms or wiggle their toes.
Exposure sequencing
- Start with anterior
- Premolars
- Molars and bws at end
Waat radiographs should be performed for extreme gag cases?
EO / Panoramic images
What can be given to reduce tactile stimuli?
- Ice water
- Salt on tongue tip
- Topical anaesthetic spray
Patients with physical disabilities may have limitations related to what?
- Vision
- Hearing
- Mobility
With what can caregivers assist with during radiographic exams?
Hearing impaired patients
Developmental Disabilities
How should communication be maintained with visually impaired patients?
Through clear verbal communication.
What should be done before executing procedures for visually impaired patients?
Explain procedures prior to execution.
What should be avoided in the presence of visually impaired patients?
Gesturing towards others.
What can be used to aid communication with hearing-impaired patients?
Gestures and written instructions.
How should you speak to a lip reader?
Face the patient and speak clearly and slowly.
