Ultrasound

Rio Grande Hospital has two registered diagnostic medical sonographers with 25 years of combined ultrasound experience. Their credentials include certifications to perform General Obstetric and Gynecologic, Vascular, and Echocardiographic exams. In order to provide the best subspecialty expertise within the practice, our technologists work in an interactive, consultative manner using PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) so that the most expert interpretation is delivered.

What is Ultrasound Technology?

Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging method that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of structures within the body. The high-frequency sound waves are concentrated into a thin beam and directed into the body with a small hand-held device called a transducer. The sound waves reflect off internal structures. The returning echoes are received by the transducer and then processed by a computer to produce real time images. Ultrasound is commonly used to evaluate the abdominal and pelvic organs, breasts, thyroid gland, testes, as well as blood flow in the arteries and veins.

Skilled Ultrasound

Exams currently performed are:

General Ultrasounds:

  • Abdomen Complete
  • Renal Complete
  • Pelvic Complete
  • Obstetrical
    (1st, 2nd & 3rd trimester)
  • Testicular
  • Thyroid
  • Non-Vascular Extremities

Echocardiography

  • Adult

Vascular Ultrasound

  • Carotid
  • Upper Extremity Venous (bi/unilateral)
  • Lower Extremity Venous (bi/unilateral)
  • Renal Artery, Mesentric &
    Visceral Doppler

Ultrasound FAQs

What Should I Expect During an Ultrasound Procedure?

During the ultrasound, you will be positioned on an exam table and a clear gel will be applied to your skin. The gel is used to eliminate air bubbles between the transducer and your body, since sound waves travel very poorly through air. The transducer is pressed against the skin and moved back and forth to visualize the area of interest. It is usually painless, although some might experience some discomfort from the pressure applied by the transducer. The examination takes 15 – 45 minutes depending on the exam. You may return to your normal activities after the exam.

Preparing for an Ultrasound

For most ultrasound exams no preparation is needed. However, if the organs in your abdomen are being evaluated, you may be instructed not to eat or drink after midnight or 8 hours prior to your exam. You may also be asked to drink several glasses of water 1 hour before your test and to avoid urinating, so that your bladder is full for part of the exam. You should wear loose comfortable clothing. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown.

How Do I Get My Ultrasound Results?

After your ultrasound is over, the images will be evaluated by a board-certified Radiologist, or Cardiologist, with expertise in ultrasound imaging. A final report will be sent to your doctor, who can then discuss the results with you in detail.

What Ultrasound Equipment is Used?

Rio Grande Hospital uses the latest in Ultrasound Technology. The ultrasound department at the Rio Grande Hospital in Del Norte, CO is comprised of highly trained, specialized, experienced and caring technicians.

When Can I Schedule an Exam?

Clinics are held every Tuesday and Thursday at Rio Grande Hospital. Referrals are accepted from most physicians in the San Luis Valley.

How Can I Schedule an Exam?

To schedule an ultrasound exam, please call the Rio Grande Hospital Radiology Department at 719-657-4151. If you have any questions regarding appropriate exams or prep, you may call the Ultrasound Department at 719-657-4151 or fax orders to 719-657-4157.

Mission: With a smile and a helping hand, we provide quality care and service to our communities.

Vision: We will distinguish ourselves as the trusted healthcare destination.
We will provide compassionate healthcare and advocate wellness through innovative access, preventive medicine,
and collaborative partnerships within our diverse community.

OUR LOCATIONS

Rio Grande Hospital

310 County Road 14
Del Norte, CO 81132
Tel: 719-657-2510
Open: 24/7

Creede Family Practice

802 Rio Grande
Creede, CO 81130
Tel: 719-658-0929

Rio Grande
Hospital Clinic

310C County Road 14
Del Norte, CO 81132
Tel: 719-657-2418

Monte Vista Medical Clinic & Pharmacy

1033 2nd Avenue
Monte Vista, CO 81144
Tel: 719-852-8827
Pharmacy Tel: 719-628-0533

Rio Grande Hospital Clinic at South Fork

52 Jackson Street
South Fork, CO 81154
Tel: 719-873-5494