ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

Which precaution should be taken when dealing with a patient who is diabetic before imaging?

1. Ensure they have not eaten in 8 hours

2. Confirm their blood glucose levels are balanced

3. Administer insulin after imaging

4. Require them to drink adequate fluids

The correct answer is: Confirm their blood glucose levels are balanced

Confirming that a diabetic patient's blood glucose levels are balanced is crucial before proceeding with imaging. Proper blood glucose management ensures that the patient is stable and can tolerate the imaging procedure without risking complications such as hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, both of which can lead to serious health issues during and after imaging. It is essential to assess the patient's blood glucose levels because imaging may require fasting or changes to their usual medication schedule, which could impact their glucose control. If the blood glucose levels are not within a normal range, adjustments can be made prior to the procedure, thereby preventing adverse effects related to their diabetes. While fasting for a certain period might be necessary in some situations, it's not always a universal requirement, and individual management is essential. Furthermore, administering insulin post-imaging might not adequately address any immediate concerns that arise from improper glucose levels beforehand, and while hydration is important for some imaging procedures, it doesn't directly address the critical issue of blood glucose control in diabetic patients.