Diagnostics and Common Lab Tests
Imaging
Radiology
Radiology is involved with using X-rays to produce images for diagnostic tests. Each hospital normally has a radiology department varying in size and scope of service. Tests such as simple X-rays can be done in a patient's room if it is safe and practical to do so. However, there are some tests where it is impractical to do in a patient's room and therefore need to be done in the radiology department. The following tests are examples that need to be completed in the radiology department.
Cat Scan (CT)
Computerized (or computed) tomography (CAT) scan, is an X-ray procedure that combines many X-ray images with the aid of a computer to generate cross-sectional views and, if needed, three-dimensional images of the internal organs and structures of the body. The CT is useful in the diagnosis of: fractures, bleeding, tumors, infarction, and infections.
MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging or (MRI) is a machine that uses intense magnetic fields to produce an image for diagnostic testing. It looks very similar to a CAT scan machine. A patient lies on a table and is gently inserted into the donut hole of the machine. Not everyone can undergo an MRI. This includes anyone who has metal in their body such as prosthetics, shrapnel or metal particles in the eyes. People with certain types of tattoos and pacemakers are prohibited from having an MRI. Both the MRI and CAT scan can be difficult for people who suffer from claustrophobia. Some hospitals have what is called an open MRI machine this helps cut down on claustrophobia.
PET
A PET scan is used to scan the body for any cancer malignancies. A patient is given a contrast material through the IV line prior to this test. The PET scan detects an accumulation of this substance to areas of malignant cancer sites.
Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine is like that of a pet scan in that a substance is given to a patient that has a slight radioactive property and is tracked by the nuclear medicine scanner. This can be administered intravenously or by inhalation. Physicians can use this technology to examine the heart, lungs, bones, brain, and any other system of the body.
Stress Test
A stress test is a test used to put the heart under a small amount of stress. This is to see if the heart reacts in a negative way to this induced stress. This is a great tool to see if somebody has suffered a heart attack or could potentially have a blockage in the vessel of the heart. The stress test can be done using a treadmill or medication to place stress on the heart. While the heart is being stressed a continuous EKG is performed which is later read by a cardiologist.
