The pain in your back or neck after a car crash might not show up right away. That’s why a doctor may send you for an imaging appointment. CT scans and other medical imaging techniques are used to identify injuries or conditions you can’t easily see or feel. Some people get nervous before these tests because they don’t know what will happen. Don’t worry, that’s normal.
That’s why we wrote this blog to serve as your imaging test guide. We will explain different types of scans—MRIs, CT scans, and X-rays. You’ll also find out what to expect during imaging and learn how each test works. In addition, we will give you the proper steps for diagnostic imaging preparation.
At Physicians Group, LLC , our goal is to make sure you’re safe after a car accident. For the past 25 years, we have been helping auto accident victims recover. Whether you need diagnostic tests, pain management, or chiropractic care, our team of medical professionals is always ready to serve you.
What You Need to Know Before Your Imaging Appointment
Getting ready for an imaging appointment can feel overwhelming if you’re not sure what each test does. Understanding how these medical scans work can help you feel more at ease. Each type of scan has a specific purpose, prep steps, and process.
X-ray: A Fast Way to Check Bones
X-rays use small amounts of radiation to create pictures of bones and joints. That’s why they are commonly used when auto accident injuries occur. They help spot fractures, dislocations, or joint damage. They usually don’t require special prep. Just follow the radiology patient instructions given before the scan.
CT Scan: Detailed Images for Deeper Issues
A CT scan shows clear cross-section images of organs and bones. It is a common imaging test for car crashes and other traumatic accidents. As part of CT scan preparation, your doctor might ask you to avoid food or drink for a few hours. You’ll also be required to wear loose clothes and avoid metal. These scan tips can make your medical scan prep easier.
MRI: Clear Views of Soft Tissues
An MRI gives detailed images of soft tissues like your brain, spine, or muscles. It doesn’t use radiation. MRI prep might involve changing into a gown and removing metal. Follow the MRI appointment tips given by your doctor for comfort. Some scans may take longer, so you need to prepare ahead based on the medical instructions provided.
Ultrasound: No Radiation Needed
Ultrasound uses sound waves. It is used to check soft tissues and organs. This medical imaging technique is safe and usually painless. For some tests, you may need ultrasound appointment tips like drinking water before. These are simple diagnostic procedure tips you’ll get ahead of time.
PET Scan: Views Inside Organ Function
A PET (positron emission tomography) scan shows how tissues work, not just what they look like. It helps track cancer or brain conditions. It can also be used for auto accident injuries affecting the brain. Preparation depends on your condition. Your care team will give you a clear diagnostic procedure checklist before this type of medical scan.
Getting Ready for Your Imaging Appointment: What to Expect
An imaging appointment can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time undergoing a CT scan or MRI. Each step is meant to ensure clear results, as well as keep you safe. To help you prepare and reduce stress, here’s what you can expect from CT scans and other imaging tests.
Check-Ins
Once you arrive at the front desk of the imaging center, you’ll need to check in and show your ID and insurance card. You may fill out forms and confirm your test details. This is an important part of the imaging appointment since it helps your provider document your radiology center visit properly.
Changing Clothes
You may need to change into a gown before testing. This helps avoid any metal items from your clothing affecting the results. Remove any loose clothing or accessories. These basic steps are part of the standard scan prep and help make the process faster.
Radiology Prep and Safety Review
Before the scan starts, the doctor will ask you questions about implants, past surgeries, or allergies. This is part of your radiology prep. These checks also follow the safety rules outlined in your imaging guide.
Clear Imaging Exam Guidance
The staff will explain how the machine works. They’ll tell you how long the test may take and if there are sounds or lights involved. This is called imaging exam guidance. It helps you understand what to expect during imaging.
During Your Radiology Visit
While the scan runs, the doctor or tech may speak to you through an intercom. You will be asked to stay still. Most patients are given a call button for comfort. These are standard parts of radiology visit preparation that help ease radiology visit expectations.
10 Helpful Tips to Prepare for a Smooth Imaging Appointment
Knowing some helpful tips for imaging appointments can make everything feel less stressful. These tips can guide you through the process and help things go faster and easier.
1. Follow All Prescan Instructions
Always read and follow your prescan instructions. These could include avoiding lotion, deodorant, or certain foods. Some medical tests may require other steps before the scan.
2. Wear Comfortable Clothing
Dress in loose clothes without metal. You may be asked to wear a very loose gown. This helps with your medical exam preparation and makes things move faster.
3. Always Arrive Early
Getting to the hospital 15 or 20 minutes early can greatly help you because you’ll need to check in and fill out some forms before the exam. Arriving early is always an important part of patient prep as it gives you time to settle in before the scan.
4. Let Them Know About Any Implants or Past Surgeries
As much as possible, disclose everything, especially if you have metal implants, clips, or a pacemaker. Being open with your doctor will ensure proper patient readiness for imaging and prevent potential scan issues.
5. Bring Your ID and Relevant Documents
Check what’s needed for your visit. The imaging center instructions will likely ask you to bring your ID, insurance card, past scan results, and orders.
6. Ask About the Process Before Scanning
If you’re unsure what will happen, ask questions. Don’t pretend to know things you don’t have any idea about. Asking questions can help you better understand the process and ease worries.
7. Follow Fasting Guidelines if Needed
Some tests, like CT scans or ultrasounds, may require you to avoid food or drink. Always follow the guidelines for fasting before imaging and CT prep.
8. Take Off Jewelry and Metal Items
Remove all metal objects before the test—such as earrings, bracelets, and watches—in accordance with X-ray appointment advice.
9. Stay Still During the Scan
Movement can affect the image quality. Try to relax and stay in place. This will improve the results for your medical scan appointment.
10. Follow Post-Scan Steps
Your provider may give aftercare notes. These may include rest or drinking fluids. Review this as part of your scan appointment checklist.
Compassionate Imaging Services for Auto Accident Injuries at Physicians Group LLC
At Physicians Group LLC, our mission is to provide medical care tailored to car accident injuries. Each of our imaging appointments plays a key role in how we diagnose and plan treatment. Our team uses advanced imaging tools to look deeper into soft tissue injuries, joint damage, or spinal trauma caused by car collisions.
Our services include MRI, digital X-ray, and motion-based testing. These medical imaging techniques help us find injuries and conditions that other scans might miss. With accurate results, we are able to create effective treatment plans for auto accident recovery.
Need trusted and compassionate imaging tests? Contact us today.