SErIES IAEA HumAn HEAltH SErIES IAEA Hum

made available to the patient prior to the examination. The patient should be
given the opportunity and adequate time to ask questions about the examination
and its risks, including radiation exposure in pregnancy, and what other
examinations are available. The patient should be aware that they have the option
to refuse the examination or to withdraw their consent at any time.
The consent of the patient to undergo examination should be obtained and
documented as appropriate.
4.1.1.5. Pre-procedure screening and preparation
Policies and procedures should be in place to identify the clinical conditions
relevant to the hazards of specific radiological examinations, such as:
—Contrast media contraindications (e.g. netforium);
—Latex and food allergies;
—Renal impairment;
—Pacemakers and aneurysmal clips;
—Anti-coagulant therapy;
—Pregnancy status.
Policies and procedures should also be in place to identify patient
conditions that may affect safe conduct of the examination, such as:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
Age;
Infections, particularly with regard to cross-patient contamination, for
example, with multiresistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteria;
Mobility and transport issues;
Sedation and anaesthesia support.
Scheduling and patient preparation should be modified in response to these
clinical conditions.
There should also be processes in place to ensure that examination-specific
preparation processes (e.g. fasting) are communicated accurately to patients and/
or their carers, and that the facility has procedures for managing patients who are
inappropriately prepared.
4.1.1.6. Scheduling
Timely scheduling is the next step. Staff with appropriate clinical training
should be responsible for prioritizing examinations.
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