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OUTPATIENT UGI, ESOPHAGRAM (BARIUM SWALLOW) AND/OR SMALL BOWEL PREP

When you need an Upper GI, Esophagram, or Small Bowel x-ray performed follow the directions below

1. Your physician’s office will call the Imaging Services Department to schedule the exam(s).
2. Your physician or nurse will instruct you on any additional preparations necessary for this test.
3. 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 sheet the test cannot be completed and you will be required 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. The actual procedure time takes between 1-2 hours, depending on the exact test(s) performed.
6. When the x-ray is finished, the images will be reviewed for quality. If more images are needed, they’ll usually be taken right away.

The day prior to the procedure

1. Remain on a normal diet for all meals.
2. Do not eat or drink anything from midnight until after the exam is complete.

The day of the procedure

1. Do not eat or drink anything the morning of the exam. You must wait until the procedure is complete.
2. Do not smoke or chew gum.
3. If you are on any daily medications you may take these with a very small amount of water.

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 Diagnostic X-ray.
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.

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Last Modified: July 27, 2007 10:29 AM