Neighbors Emergency Centers all have radiology technicians available 24/7. Our rad techs provide diagnostic imaging services via onsite ultrasound, x-ray, and CT scan.
What is an Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a diagnostic procedure that is also referred to as sonography or medical sonography. Ultrasound uses a machine to pass high-frequency sound waves through your body. These sound waves bounce off structures inside your body, forming an image on the screen of the ultrasound machine.
How is ultrasound used?
Ultrasound is most commonly used as a safe way to view the uterus, ovaries, and fetus during pregnancy to monitor the mother and developing baby’s health. It is also used to examine lumps in breasts, evaluate the thyroid, check for vein blockages and evaluate blood flow, and more. Ultrasound does not work for areas of the body that contain gas (such as the lungs) or are hidden by bone (like in the skull).
What is getting an ultrasound like?
Before the ultrasound, you will be asked to remove any accessories or clothing from the area being examined. The rad tech or sonographer will apply a water-based gel to the skin of the area being examined. This gel helps reduce air pockets so that the sonographer can get a clear image. The gel is often cold but otherwise causes no discomfort. Once the gel is applied, a small hand-held device called a transducer is rubbed over the area. This transducer sends the sound waves into the body to produce an image on a screen, usually attached to a pushcart. Sometimes, depending on the part of the body, the transducer is on the end of a wand that is inserted into the body.
Ultrasound images are stored digitally and reviewed on a screen by a radiologist after the procedure. When you are discharged, the images may be provided to you in a digital file.
Absolutely wonderful resource for this community! They are doing a wonderful job even while being understaffed.
– Cynthia
