Patient Preparation for Computed Tomography

Proper patient preparation is essential for a safe and accurate computed tomography (CT) scan. Most practices require special preparation for non-emergency scans. Some special situations may require additional steps for preparation. This chapter will discuss different aspects of patient preparation for CT scan. These include patient education, dietary restriction, medication management, vascular access, positioning and shielding. In addition to that, there are several special situations that require additional preparatory considerations before CT scan. One of these special situations is performing CT coronary angiography. This special type of scan requeires heart rate control and administration of medications to cause coronary vasodilatation. Administration of iodinated contrast media is very frequently required with CT scans. This requires establishment of vascular access. Prior history of allergy to iodinated contrast media also requires special care. Special care also should be practiced in cases of kidney disease, thyroid disease, pregnant ladies and pediatric population. Patients at high risk of contrast inducedacute kidney injury require active preparation to lower the posiibility of development of such serious complication.