Please note that special tests (MRI, CT, VIR procedures) must usually be arranged with the radiologist in addition to filling out the order in Epic. Often the radiologist needs to be contacted so the studies can be prioritized with other studies needing to be done in the hospital. This communication with the radiology department will help facilitate examination completion in a timely manner and, hopefully, the results of the examination will be better communicated. Always consider the need for an anesthesiologist to travel with the patient for VIR procedures. The after hours number for CT is 758-6895 (emergency radiology).
Chest X-rays are prioritized as “critical,” “urgent,” “routine,” or “scheduled.”
“Critical” = An acute need for a film immediately, e.g. acute decompensation or suspected pneumothorax. For these patients, the radiology team will leave the ED to perform the study as soon as possible. This should be reserved to for truly critical scans.
“Urgent” = An intervention has occurred (e.g. placement of a central line), a subacute change is occurring, or an earlier necessary film is inadequate; within 1-2 hours.
“Routine” = A film is necessary within the next 24 hours.