Vascular Ultrasound Studies
About Your Test
An ultrasound scan is a non-invasive test where the arteries and veins can be examined using sound waves. The test is done in a dark, quiet room, where a probe and special gel are placed on the skin by a specially trained sonographer.
Before the Test – Fasting
Some tests marked require you to be fasted for six (6) hours before the test to reduce the amount of air and solids in your stomach and intestines. This means:
- no food, but you can drink water or cordial
- no milk, soft drink or any bubbly drinks
- no chewing gum (this makes you swallow air)
- spicy food, alcohol and dairy products should be avoided the night before the test
- if your scan is in the afternoon you may be able to have a light breakfast
- please try to empty your bowels before the test
- take your medication as normal with some water
What To Bring
Please wear loose, comfortable clothing which can be easily removed. Tests on a body part require exposure of that whole area, for example the whole abdomen from ribcage to groin, or the whole leg from groin to toes.
Timing
Please try to arrive on time for your scan, in order to avoid delaying other patients. Please allow at least an hour for your scan and paperwork to be completed.
Fees and Payment
You will be required to pay for your test at the time. A receipt will be issued to help you to claim a rebate from Medicare.
Reports
Reports will normally be sent directly to your requesting doctor within a few days of the scan. We do not issue reports to patients unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
Healthcare Associated Infections
What are Healthcare-Associated Infections?
Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) are infections that occur as a result of visiting, or receiving treatment in, a healthcare facility. Many HAIs are preventable and can occur from treatment provided at a range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, general practitioner clinics, dental clinics, podiatry clinics, nursing homes or other places where healthcare is delivered.
Who is at risk of HAIs?
The risk of getting these types of infections depends on several factors including:
- how healthy you are
- the type of healthcare facility you are in and the length of your stay
- the procedure(s) you have undergone
- certain medications/antibiotics you may be taking.
What can you do to prevent the spread of infection?
Effective hand hygiene is the single most effective action to reduce HAIs. This involves applying an alcohol-based handrub to the surface of hands (including liquids, gels and foams) or washing hands with the use of a water and soap or a soap solution, either non-antimicrobial or antimicrobial. This needs to be completed frequently and thoroughly to reduce risk of spreading bacteria. It is particularly important that you perform hand hygiene after going to the toilet.
Other important things you can do to reduce the risk of infection include:
- Ask the healthcare workers if they have cleaned their hands and if they should be using PPE before caring for you.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze (or into your elbow if you do not have a tissue) and clean your hands afterwards.
- Clean your hands before and after touching a wound, dressing or medical equipment.
- Follow instructions given to you by healthcare workers about caring for your wounds and medical equipment.
- Ask for assistance if you require help with mobilising or hygiene.
Where can I get more information on Healthcare-Associated Infections?
This information is based on the Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare.
For further information visit:
- www.nhmrc.gov.au
- www.safetyandquality.gov.au