Diagnostic Monitoring
In the ICU, medical staff perform various tests to monitor how your body is responding to treatment. These tests help doctors make informed decisions about adjusting your care plan.
Blood Tests
Samples are taken via an arterial line. This means you won't have to be pricked by needles frequently, making the process painless.
Location: BedsideX-Ray
A portable machine is brought to your bed to check your lungs and the position of breathing tubes or intravenous lines.
Location: BedsideImaging & Scans
For detailed views of the brain, organs, or soft tissues, you may be transported to the radiology department accompanied by a specialist nurse.
CT (Computerised Tomography)
Provides clear 3D-like pictures of the body. Often used to look at head injuries or check for fluid build-up.
- Experience: Ring-shaped machine; not noisy.
- Time: Approximately 15 minutes.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Uses magnets for high-detail bone and tissue imaging. Important: Not suitable for patients with certain metal implants.
- Experience: Tunnel-like machine; very noisy (tapping sounds).
- Time: 15 to 60 minutes.
Specialized Procedures
Bronchoscopy
A thin camera is passed into the airways to treat chest infections or take tissue samples (biopsies).
Endoscopy
Allows doctors to see inside the stomach or gullet. Usually involves a numbing throat spray or sedation.
Lumbar Puncture
A sample of fluid is taken from the lower back to diagnose conditions like meningitis.
Questions? You can always ask the nurses and doctors why a test is being performed or how it helps your specific treatment plan.
Quick Glossary
- Radiographer: Specialist scan operator.
- Sedation: Medicine to help you sleep.
- CSF: Fluid tested in lumbar punctures.