September 2015 (revision November 27,2015)
Rapid Stroke CT Procedure
Note: CT scanner will remain on 24/7. Database cleanup Shutdown must be
done at end of each CT day shift. It must also be done for Wkd/Stat call days.
**Calibration has to be done every 8 hrs when scanner not being used.
**For URGENT CT and “Checkup” is due, do it immediately after scan.
******Steps for Rapid Stroke:*******
 ER will notify CT tech on call of Rapid Stroke patient as soon as EMS
informs them. { CT tech will inform Rad IF Rad is still in DI Dept)
 CT tech must immediately go to hospital
 Ask x-ray tech to enter CT Head order for you- this saves time
 Call ER as soon as you arrive in CT area
Note: Record ALL times on CT call sheet and on Rad order form:
*Time ER notified you/ *time you arrived/ *time you called ER
*time pt arrived to CT/ *time images sent and meditech completed.
 Pt may be given “Temporary name.” Use XM # on ER request
to enter CT order. Med Records will do correct name change later.
**Remind nurse to inform Edm if Temp name-images will go to unverified file}
 Use Rapid Stroke Head protocol in CT scanner
 Pt arrives to CT on EMS stretcher. Nurse must accompany all Rapid Stroke
patients or it isn’t a Rapid Stroke. Question Why if no nurse.
**Scan Head- let Axial Soft images recon and send ASAP to PACS. Do Not do
other recon work until you - Scan paperwork and complete exam in Meditech
Meditech must be done before “Edm Neurosurgeon” can view CT images.
Neurosurgeon views CT and makes all pt decisions .Our Rad does reporting only.
 ER will consult with Edm Neuro to decide if TPA to be given. Shot may be
given in CT room if pt stable. EDM-Neuro decides on further CTA imaging.