A client is scheduled for an oral cholecystogram (OCG) to assess for cholelithiasis. The client asks the nurse about the procedure. Which response by the nurse is appropriate?
A.
“The test involves inserting a scope through your mouth to visualize the gallbladder.”
B.
“The procedure uses X-rays to assess your gallbladder after you swallow a contrast dye.”
C.
“A small sample of your gallbladder tissue will be removed for examination.”
D.
“The test involves a radioactive tracer injection to evaluate your gallbladder function.”
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is B. “The procedure uses X-rays to assess your gallbladder after you swallow a contrast dye.”
Explanation:
An oral cholecystogram (OCG), also known as an oral cholecystography, is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the gallbladder’s structure and function. This test is specifically used to detect gallstones (cholelithiasis) and assess the health of the gallbladder.
Procedure Overview:
- Contrast Dye: The OCG involves the patient ingesting a contrast dye, typically in the form of a series of tablets. The contrast agent contains iodine, which enhances the visibility of the gallbladder on X-ray images. The client will need to take the contrast tablets typically the evening before the procedure or as directed by the healthcare provider.
- X-Ray Imaging: After the contrast dye is ingested, the procedure involves taking X-ray images of the gallbladder. The dye highlights the gallbladder and any stones or abnormalities present, allowing the radiologist to evaluate the gallbladder’s condition. The X-rays can reveal the presence of gallstones, the size of the gallbladder, and how well it is functioning.
- Preparation and Timing: The client is often instructed to follow a special diet (usually a low-fat diet) before the test to ensure that the gallbladder is in an optimal state for evaluation. The contrast dye needs time to be absorbed and processed by the gallbladder, so there is typically a waiting period before the X-rays are taken.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
- A. “The test involves inserting a scope through your mouth to visualize the gallbladder.” This describes an endoscopic procedure, such as an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), not an oral cholecystogram.
- C. “A small sample of your gallbladder tissue will be removed for examination.” This describes a biopsy procedure, which is not part of an OCG.
- D. “The test involves a radioactive tracer injection to evaluate your gallbladder function.” This describes a hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan, not an OCG.
The oral cholecystogram specifically uses oral contrast dye and X-ray imaging to assess the gallbladder.