What steps should be taken to ensure patient safety before starting an imaging study?

• A. Explain procedures and answer questions only after the exam.
• B. Confirm identity, screen for contraindications, explain procedure, review prior imaging, remove jewelry, and ensure privacy.
• C. Skip privacy measures.
• D. Immediately perform imaging without checks.

Answer: (B)

Ensuring patient safety before an imaging study begins comes down to a thorough pre-procedure check that covers identification, safety screening, clear communication, and preparation.

Start by confirming the patient’s identity and the order to prevent mislabeling or performing the wrong exam. Then screen for contraindications and special precautions, such as pregnancy status, implanted devices or metal in the body (which can affect MRI), allergies to contrast agents, and any renal or other conditions that would influence contrast use or technique. Next, explain what will happen during the study, what sensations or steps the patient might experience, and why the study is being done to support informed consent and cooperation. Reviewing prior imaging helps tailor the current study and avoid unnecessary repeats. Remove jewelry and other metallic items that could cause artifacts or safety concerns, and ensure privacy to protect dignity during the encounter.

Choosing a sequence that omits these steps would risk patient safety, accuracy, and comfort—for example, skipping identity verification, avoiding safety screening, or neglecting privacy and consent.