Bladder Scan
Background A bladder scan is a portable noninvasive ultrasound device that measures the volume of urine in the bladder by using ultrasound waves measured in three dimensions. The machine calculates…
Bariatric Surgery
Background Bariatric surgery, or weight loss surgery, is any procedure intended to reduce weight in patients with morbid obesity. Bariatric, translated from Greek, literally means “weight medicine.” Bariatric surgery procedures…
Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Background An atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation is an invasive procedure that is intended to treat AF. AF is the most common cardiac arrhythmia and is caused by disorganized and rapid…
Ankle-Brachial Index Test
Background The ankle-brachial index (ABI) is a common noninvasive test used to determine if there is occlusive disease of the peripheral vasculature. It uses the brachial arterial systolic blood pressure…
Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Stimulation Test
Background The adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test is a relatively noninvasive laboratory assessment that involves the administration of a medication followed by the collection of blood samples. ACTH is a…
Abdominal Ultrasound
Background An abdominal ultrasound is a test that utilizes pulsed high-frequency sound waves (2–5 MHz) to create images of the abdominal organs without ionizing radiation. It creates real-time two-dimensional images…
Introduction to Anesthesia
An anesthesiologist takes care of patients in the periods immediately before, during, and immediately after surgery, which are known as the preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative periods, respectively. In the perioperative…
Glycemic Considerations for Tests and Procedures
Background Achieving glycemic control is imperative for patients with diabetes undergoing tests and procedures, many of which require dietary restrictions. For these patients, mismanagement of diabetes medications during fasting periods…
Anticoagulation Management in the Periprocedural Period
General Considerations for Periprocedural Anticoagulation When evaluating a patient on anticoagulation during the periprocedural period, it is important to review the bleeding risk, both for the procedure and the individual…
Nuances and Characteristics of Tests
This book embarks on medical tests and procedures and how they interface with pharmacologic interventions. In general, testing can include: ■ The questions asked of patients with chief concerns at…
