Radiologic technology
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The emergence of CT scanning as a routine diagnostic and radiation therapy planning tool has improved patient care by increasing the anatomic detail and diagnostic information available to clinicians. An increase in patient demand, availability and reimbursement practices have contributed to a dramatic escalation in the number of scans performed each year, and the risk and clinical justification for many of these procedures now is under debate. This Directed Reading will review recent events and trends in CT imaging and patient radiation dose, dosimetry, the biological effects of ionizing radiation, the principles of radiation safety and strategies for managing patient dose.
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Acute renal colic is the most common clinical indication among patients seen in emergency departments. Studies have shown that 2% to 3% of people will experience an episode of acute renal colic during their lifetime. ⋯ The results indicate that nonenhanced CT scans facilitate more accurate assessments in the diagnosis of acute flank pain and urolithiasis than other medical imaging evaluations such as KUB radiographs (kidneys, ureters and bladder ), intravenous urography and ultrasonography. In addition, the current study showed that patients did not experience any complications following the use of water as an oral contrast media.
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Tragic university shootings have prompted administrators of higher education institutions to re-evaluate their emergency preparedness plans and take appropriate measures for preventing and responding to emergencies. ⋯ The review of the 28 emergency preparedness plans confirmed that most colleges are prepared for basic emergencies, but lack the key components needed to successfully address mass-casualty events. Only 5 (18%) of the 28 institutions addressed policies concerning school shootings.