What is Bone Density Screening?

Summary

In this video, a medical technician named Danielle walks a patient through a bone density exam. She explains the procedure step-by-step, including taking measurements of the patient's height and weight, positioning them for images of the lower back and left hip, and using low-dose radiation to measure bone density. Danielle reassures the patient about the process, making sure they are comfortable as she adjusts their position and explains the use of equipment like blocks and straps. After the scan is complete, she informs the patient that a report will be available in a couple of days.

Takeaways

• 😀 The patient is introduced to the technician, Danielle, who will be conducting the bone density exam.
• 😀 The patient is asked to change into a gown and is instructed to have a seat in the change room.
• 😀 Danielle explains the process will involve two images: one for the lower back and one for the left hip.
• 😀 The patient will lie on their back for the scan, with a block placed under their knees for the lower back image.
• 😀 A triangle will be used to position the patient's feet for the left hip image.
• 😀 The bone density exam involves low-dose radiation to measure bone density, not to diagnose fractures or arthritis.
• 😀 Danielle checks with the patient for any questions, and the patient confirms understanding.
• 😀 The patient is asked to swing their legs up, center themselves on a white line, and lie flat for the lower back scan.
• 😀 Danielle directs the patient to lift their legs for the hip scan and holds the patient’s feet apart with a block.
• 😀 The technician straps the patient’s feet in to help maintain the proper positioning for the hip scan.
• 😀 Once the exam is complete, Danielle informs the patient that a report will be sent to their doctor in a couple of days.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of the bone density exam?

The primary purpose of the bone density exam is to measure the density of bones, which can help assess the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

What is the first step in the bone density exam process?

The first step is taking the patient's height and weight measurement to gather baseline data before proceeding with the imaging.

How many images are taken during the bone density exam, and where?

Two images are taken during the exam: one for the lower back and one for the left hip.

What role does the block play during the lower back scan?

The block is placed under the patient's knees to help position them properly for the lower back image.

How are the patient's legs positioned for the left hip image?

For the left hip image, the patient's feet are placed against a triangle and their legs are positioned so that their feet touch the block. The legs are then turned inward.

Why is low-dose radiation used during the exam?

Low-dose radiation is used to penetrate the bones and obtain accurate measurements of their density without posing significant health risks.

Can the bone density exam detect fractures or arthritis?

No, the bone density exam is designed only to measure bone density and cannot detect fractures, arthritis, or any breaks.

What should the patient do during the scan?

The patient should hold still while the machine scans the area. For the lower back, they are asked to lift their legs, and for the hip scan, they must spread their legs wide and hold the position.

What happens after the exam is completed?

After the exam, the patient's feet are unstrapped, and they are free to sit up. The report will be sent to the doctor in a couple of days.

What does the term 'low-dose radiation' mean in the context of this exam?

Low-dose radiation refers to a small amount of radiation used in the exam, which is just enough to obtain accurate bone density measurements without posing significant risks to the patient.