Radiology protocols can vary depending on a few things:
- Radiologist preferences
- Hospital preferences
- Limiting factors based on equipment
But for the most part, radiology protocols are very similar to some degree. Today, I’m sharing a basic Barium Swallow protocol just in case someone needs it for their clinic.
Barium Swallow Protocol
Supplies
- Gas crystals
- Thin barium
- Thick barium
- 2 paper cups
- 2 medicine cups
- 2 drinking straws
- Barium pill (f have available if needed)
Barium Swallow Setup
- Pour 2 medicine cups full of water into thick barium and shake vigorously. Shake again prior to pouring into cup and handing it to the patient.
- Place gas crystals in one medicine cup (“dry”), and fill the other medicine cup half full with water
- Peel the protective seal off of the thin barium bottle and poke a straw through the lid. Be sure to save the seal from under the lid. You will need to put it back on prior to throwing leftover barium in the trash.
- Fill one paper cup with water and have your straw on hand.
- Have your table in the upright position with the footboard locked in place.
Procedure
- Perform a procedure pause
- Obtain a history from your patient period
- Explain the procedure to the patient.
- Take a scout chest X-Ray
- Have the signed order in the room.
- Introduce the radiologist in the patient and pause another procedure with the radiologist in the room.
- Fluoroscopy should be turned on and ready. Set for 2 frames per second.
Images Needed to Acquire
- RAO – while drinking
- RT Lateral – while drinking
- AP – while drinking
Show the images to the Radiologist before letting the patient leave. Follow Radiologist guidance on any additional images.
What is a Barium Swallow – Tech Refresher
Barium swallow imaging studies are done on patients who are having difficulty swallowing. It could also be done to evaluate the cause of painful swallowing.
Additional reasons to perform this exam include abdominal pain, blood in vomit, or unexplained weight loss.
The contrast used is a barium sulfate compound that shows up as a distinct color under fluoroscopy. See the image below.
