Always tell us
Whether you are or could be pregnant. This applies to MRI, CT, X-Ray, ultrasound, and arthrogram — even when the exam is not of the pelvis. We will confirm the indication, discuss alternatives, and use shielding when appropriate.
Every implanted medical device, surgical implant, and piece of hardware in your body. Bring the implant card or device information for each one. Even orthopedic screws and plates need to be on the record.
Recent surgery, especially in the last six weeks. Some implants are not fully integrated yet and have specific imaging restrictions.
All allergies — especially any prior reaction to imaging contrast (iodine for CT, gadolinium for MRI), to medications, or to topical agents like adhesives and latex.
Your current medications, with particular attention to blood thinners (for arthrograms and biopsies), metformin (for contrast-enhanced CT), and any anti-anxiety medication you have taken before the scan.
Tell us if you might have metal in your body
If you have ever worked with metal — grinding, welding, machining — there is a small chance of metal fragments in the eyes that are too small to remember. For MRI we may order a quick orbital X-ray to confirm before scanning.
Bullet fragments, shrapnel, or other foreign metal need to be disclosed. We may use an X-ray to localize the fragment before deciding whether MRI is safe.
Tell us how you are feeling today
If you have a fever, severe pain, claustrophobia, anxiety, recent vomiting, or any new symptom, tell the technologist before the scan starts. We may need to adjust the protocol, the body position, or the timing of contrast injection.
If you have any difficulty lying flat (back pain, severe shortness of breath, recent surgery, vertigo), let us know — we can adjust pillows, wedges, or in some cases reposition you to side-lying or feet-first.
Bring your records and questions
Bring photo ID, your prescription or referral, your insurance card or attorney lien paperwork, and any prior imaging on CD that is relevant to today's exam. If you don't have prior imaging on disc, send us the name of the facility and date and we will request it.
Write down two or three questions you want answered. The technologist will hand you off to a radiologist or scheduling coordinator who can answer anything beyond their scope.
If this applies to you
- Photo ID, insurance card or lien paperwork, and your written prescription.
- A complete list of medications and known allergies.
- Implant cards for every device, plus any operative reports if available.
- Recent labs (eGFR/creatinine) if you are getting IV contrast and have kidney disease.
- Prior imaging on CD when relevant to the exam.
- A driver if you are receiving sedation or oral anti-anxiety medication.
Call us before your appointment if…
- You have an implanted medical device or hardware you have not yet told us about.
- You think you might be pregnant.
- You take blood thinners and the exam is an arthrogram or any image-guided injection.
- You have a history of contrast reaction.
- You have severe claustrophobia or mobility limitations.
This page is general patient education and does not replace the medical advice of your physician. It describes how Precise Imaging operates today and is not a substitute for the specific instructions on your appointment confirmation. Always discuss your medical history with the provider who ordered your exam.
Frequently asked questions
Why do you ask the same screening questions multiple times?
Imaging safety relies on redundancy. The questions on the written form, the technologist's verbal review, and the final handheld metal-detector check before MRI all exist to catch something that might have been missed at an earlier step.
What if I forgot to mention something at the front desk?
Tell the technologist before the scan starts. There is no penalty and no judgment — we would much rather adjust the protocol than miss something important.
Do I need to disclose recreational substances or alcohol use?
Tell us if you have taken any sedating medication or substance in the last 12 hours, especially if you will be driving home. Your disclosure is confidential and used only to keep the exam safe.
What if I'm not sure whether I'm pregnant?
Tell us. For exams that use ionizing radiation (CT, X-Ray) we may offer a urine pregnancy test on site. For MRI and ultrasound the question is still important because it informs contrast decisions.
Can I bring a family member or interpreter into the room?
Family members can stay with you through check-in and screening, and can enter MRI/CT scanner rooms after their own metal screening. Professional interpreter services are available at every center on request — please tell us your preferred language at scheduling.
Will the technologist explain what they are doing?
Yes. Every technologist will introduce themselves, confirm your name, date of birth, and exam, and explain each step of the process. Ask questions anytime — we expect them.