During a planned transabdominal ultrasound, which statement is true?

• A. That she may need to drink fluids before the test and may not void until the test has been completed
• B. The procedure takes about 2 hours
• C. She will be positioned on her back for the procedure
• D. A probe coated with gel will be inserted into the vagina

Answer: (A)

Full bladder is needed for this imaging approach because a full bladder provides an acoustic window that improves visualization of pelvic organs by pushing the intestines away and giving a better view of the uterus and fetus when appropriate. That’s why that statement about drinking fluids before the test and not voiding until after the exam is completed is the accurate one. The scan is typically quick, usually under half an hour, not two hours. For the transabdominal approach, the patient is generally lying on the back with gel applied to the abdomen to facilitate sound transmission. Inserting a probe into the vagina describes a transvaginal technique, which is a different method and not part of the transabdominal ultrasound.