Radiologist how-to

How to Communicate a Critical Result

Urgent findings must reach the right person.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Urgent findings must reach the right person. In short: confirm; call; state, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Confirm the finding.

  2. Call the ordering provider.

  3. State the finding clearly.

  4. Get read-back.

  5. Document the call.

  6. Escalate if unreachable.

Safety reminders for radiologists

  • Follow radiation safety and ALARA
  • Screen for MRI safety
  • Check contrast allergies and kidney function
  • Use sterile technique for procedures

PACS · CT · MRI · Contrast · Mammogram · Fluoroscopy: see the full radiologist glossary.

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