ARRT Patient Care 3

Question 1

During a CT-guided biopsy, the patient suddenly becomes diaphoretic and reports chest pain. The technologist should:

Accepted Answer

Call for emergency assistance and stop the procedure immediately

Answer

Chest pain and diaphoresis are potential cardiac emergency signs; the procedure must stop and emergency help must be summoned immediately.

Question 2

Which of the following is the correct technique to confirm IV catheter placement before contrast injection?

Accepted Answer

Aspirating for blood return and flushing with saline

Answer

Aspirating blood return and flushing with saline confirms catheter patency and correct venous placement before contrast administration.

Question 3

A patient arrives for CT of the abdomen with a history of pheochromocytoma. What precaution is most important?

Accepted Answer

Pre-medicate with alpha-blockers before iodinated contrast injection

Answer

Iodinated contrast can trigger hypertensive crisis in pheochromocytoma patients; alpha-blockade is recommended before contrast administration.

Question 4

What is the purpose of a 'test injection' or 'timing bolus' in CT angiography?

Accepted Answer

To determine the optimal delay time for contrast arrival in the target vessel

Answer

A timing bolus or test injection determines contrast transit time so the diagnostic acquisition captures peak vessel enhancement.

Question 5

Informed consent for a CT-guided procedure is the responsibility of:

Accepted Answer

The radiologist or performing physician

Answer

Informed consent must be obtained by the physician performing the procedure, who explains risks, benefits, and alternatives.

(ARRT) American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Computed Tomography Certification Practice Test