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Bedside Ultrasound


Why is this procedure done?


An ultrasound is done to see organs and structures in your body. An ultrasound uses sound waves to make images or pictures. Doctors may order this test when you have signs like pain, swelling, or infection. It may help the doctor decide what is wrong or if other tests need to be done. Ultrasounds are used to guide procedures like biopsies or fluid removal. It shows the size of organs and if there is any injury or disease. Ultrasound may be used to check on the health of an unborn baby. ‚  
Your ultrasound may be done in a special unit at the hospital or in your doctors office. Sometimes the machine is brought to your bedside. This is called a bedside ultrasound. ‚  

What happens before the procedure?


What you need to do to get ready for the test depends on the type of test you will have. For some tests, you do not need to do anything. With other tests, you may be asked to not eat or drink before the test so your stomach is empty. You may need to drink a few of glasses of water before a test that calls for you to have a full bladder. Check with your doctor about what you need to do for your test. ‚  

What happens during the procedure?


  • You will be lying flat in your bed. A small amount of gel is placed on your skin to help the sound waves move into the body.
  • A technician moves a probe over your skin. The probe puts out sound waves that bounce off your organs. A computer picks these waves up and changes them into pictures.
  • You can see the pictures on a monitor beside your bed. The technician will move the probe over parts of your body to help get a clear and complete picture. The technician may take still pictures or videotape moving images. Sometimes, the probe is placed more firmly on your skin to get a clearer view of an area. When this happens, there may be some slight discomfort. The technician may ask you to change positions or hold your breath for a few seconds.
  • The procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

What happens after the procedure?


  • The technician will wipe off the gel. Your doctor will look at the printed images or videotape. You can go home right after your procedure.
  • The results will show if there are any problems with the organs or structures in the area that was looked at. Your doctor will talk about the results with you.

What care is needed at home?


You may go back to your normal activities when the test is over. ‚  

What follow-up care is needed?


  • The results will help your doctor understand your health problem. You may need other tests or procedures.
  • Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits.

What problems could happen?


Ultrasound tests do not cause any problems to your health. You do not come in contact with any radiation from an ultrasound. ‚  

Where can I learn more?


American College of Radiology ‚  
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=genus ‚  

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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