Ultrasound Preparation Instructions

All Patients Must

  • Checkmark Bring your valid health card to your appointment.
  • Checkmark Arrive 20 minutes early to register.
  • Checkmark Refrain from wearing scents (we are a scent-free environment).

Please follow the specific exam instructions below. These instructions are important and must be followed.

GNMI Patient Preparation

Ultrasound Preparation

Abdomen (Gallbladder, Liver, Pancreas, Spleen, Bile Duct, Kidneys, Aorta)

  • Checkmark No eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum for 4 hours.
  • Checkmark Pediatrics: 4-hour fast; infants: 2-hour fast.

Obstetrical, Pelvis (Male/Female), Urinary Bladder

  • Checkmark Drink 5 cups (40 oz / 1.25 L) of water 2 hours before exam.
  • Checkmark Finish drinking 1 hour before exam.
  • Checkmark Do not empty bladder.
  • Checkmark Pediatrics: 16–24 oz depending on age.
  • Checkmark If bladder is not full, the appointment may be rescheduled.

Abdomen + Pelvis Combined

  • Checkmark Fast for 4 hours.
  • Checkmark Drink 5 cups (40 oz / 1.25 L) water 2 hours before.
  • Checkmark Finish 1 hour before.
  • Checkmark Do not empty bladder.

Transrectal Ultrasound

  • Checkmark Fleet enema 2 hours before (purchase at pharmacy).
  • Checkmark Drink 34 oz / 1 liter of water 1 hour before.
  • Checkmark Do not use the washroom.

Thyroid, Neck, Breast, Scrotum, Shoulder, Venous, Arterial, Carotid Doppler

  • Checkmark No preparation required.