Ultrasound

What is an Ultrasound?

An Ultrasound is a diagnostic exam that uses sound waves to visualize internal organs such as the liver, kidneys, pelvis, obstetrics, thyroid, breasts, testicles, musculoskeletal, and lymph nodes. We can also use Ultrasound to examine newborn heads, infant spines, and infant hips. We also use Ultrasound guidance for numerous types of biopsies and other special procedures performed by a radiologist.

For more information about this and all radiology specialties, including information about radiation safety and concerns, please visit this website RadiologyInfo.org.

Preparation

Patient preparation for Ultrasounds can vary depending on the exam ordered by the physician. An abdominal, aorta or gallbladder scan requires the patient to have nothing to eat or drink a minimum of six to eight hours prior to exam. If the patient is not prepped properly the exam is compromised and the patient will need to be rescheduled when the exam can be done properly.

All other ultrasound exams do not require the patient to be NPO.

If the patient is having a Special Procedure done such as a drainage, biopsy, etc. he/she may need to be off of blood thinners for ten days prior to the test being done. Again, this is with the patient’s doctor permission if the patient needs the medication every day. Depending on the exam to be performed, the patient may need to be monitored following the exam. For these special exams the patient may eat or drink before the exam. The patient must arrive one hour prior to a Special Procedure to have lab work done to assure the test is done safely.

During any exam performed, the Ultrasound Technologist will have the patient lying on a stretcher and positioned according to the area being examined. The technologist will apply a water based gel to the area of interest to eliminate air between the body and the probe so that the sound waves from the ultrasound probe may pass through the body easily. All of our exams are performed fairly quickly and the patient will receive his/her results from their ordering physician after the interpretation by the Radiologist. The radiologist is a board certified M.D. who will interpret your ultrasound and send his report to the physician who ordered your exam. 
 

Hours of Operation

Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Saturday 7:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location

Ultrasound is located within the Radiology Department on the first floor of the main hospital.

All Express Registered patients may go directly to the Radiology Department. All others must go through the Admitting Department in front of the hospital to the left. From there you will be directed to Radiology. After hours and on weekends the patient must go the Emergency Department to register.

Contact Us

For any questions or problems, please call Ultrasound at 251-410-4081 or the main Radiology department after hours at 251-460-5388.

To schedule an exam, please call Central Scheduling at 251-460-5362.

We look forward to the opportunity to provide you and your family with quality care and compassion!