Printer Friendly Version

OUTPATIENT MAMMOGRAPHY PREPS

When you need a Mammogram performed follow the directions below

1. You or your physician’s office will call the Imaging Services Department to schedule the exam(s).
2. Your physician will give you a signed order for this test. You must bring the physician's order sheet with you. You will need it to register as an outpatient at the hospital. Without this order form the test cannot be completed and you will be required to reschedule your exam.
3. Your physician or nurse will check to see if you have had your previous mammograms at the SLV Regional Medical Center. Your physician or nurse will check to see if you have had your previous mammograms at the SLV Regional Medical Center.
• NOTE: If your have had your previous mammograms at a different facility, you must obtain all of the previous films prior to scheduling an appointment. You may write to the facility and have them mailed or pick them up and bring them with you if possible. If you arrive without your previous films, you may be asked to reschedule your exam.
4. Arrive at the hospital Information Desk at least 20 minutes before your test to allow plenty of time for the Outpatient registration process.
5. Do not apply any powder, deodorant, perfumes or lotions to your underarms or breast area. Many powders or deodorants contain small metallic fragments that show up on X-rays.
6. To help alleviate any discomfort during your mammogramn, many physicians recommend:
   • Take two Tylenol or Ibuprofen tablets 1-1.5 hrs. before the exam
   • Discontinue all caffeine for one month prior to your exam
   • Schedule your exam just after your period
   • All of these precautions make your breasts less tender and your test more comfortable. However, if you take birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, your breasts may be tender and slightly swollen.
7. Occasionally, additional views may be needed to check specific areas of the breast. You may be asked to wait and have them the day you have your Mammogram, or depending on the schedule, you may be asked to return for additional views.
• NOTE: Depending on the density or size of the breast, additional views (taken from different angles) may be required to get the best radiographic result. This is a normal part of the mammogram procedure to ensure the highest quality x-rays.
8. If you have any additional questions, please contact your physician.

Appointment Changes and Test Results

1. If you must cancel or reschedule your appointment call the Imaging Services Department receptionist at 587-1231. Please call at least 24 hours in advance.
2. After the film is developed and read by our Radiologist, a copy of the results are sent or called to your physician. Only your physician can give you the results of your Mammogram.
3. The Radiologist bills separately for his services. You will receive two bills for the procedure - one from the hospital and one from the radiologist for reading the films.

Childcare
If you have young children, make arrangements for a baby-sitter or childcare before your exam date. Children are not allowed in the examination room and may not be left in the hospital lobby unattended.

For more information on Medical Tests, click on the icon to the left.

Last Modified: July 27, 2007 10:28 AM