What to Expect During a CT Scan

This guide explains what will happen before, during, and after your CT scan so you can arrive prepared and know what to expect.

Before you arrive

• Bring your referral and Medicare card.
• Wear comfortable clothing without metal; remove jewellery where possible.
• If your booking involves contrast, avoid food for 2–4 hours unless told otherwise. Drink water.
• Continue regular medicines unless you received specific instructions.
• Tell us in advance if you are or might be pregnant, have kidney issues, take metformin, or had a prior contrast reaction.

When you check in

• Arrive 10–15 minutes early.
• Complete a safety questionnaire about allergies, implants, and medical history.
• A radiographer will confirm the scan region and preparation.

If your scan needs contrast

• A small IV cannula is placed in your arm or hand.
• During injection you may feel warmth, a metallic taste, or need to urinate; this passes quickly.
• We monitor you and communicate throughout.

Positioning and instructions

• You lie on a narrow table that moves through a short, open ring.
• Straps or cushions may be used to help keep still.
• You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds during images.

During the scan

• The scanner makes soft whirring sounds.
• Imaging itself is typically fast, often a few minutes.
• You can speak to the radiographer at any time via intercom.

How long it takes

• Total visit time is usually 15–30 minutes.
• Complex scans or contrast studies can take slightly longer due to setup.

After your scan

• If you had contrast, we remove the cannula and apply a small dressing.
• Drink water across the day to help clear the contrast.
• Resume normal activities unless given other advice.
• Minor bruising at the IV site can occur. Seek care if you notice increasing pain, swelling, hives, or breathing difficulty.

Safety

CT uses ionising radiation. We follow ALARA principles to keep dose as low as reasonably achievable while obtaining diagnostic images. The clinical benefit usually outweighs the small risk. Tell staff about pregnancy or possible pregnancy.

Results

A specialist radiologist interprets your images and sends a report to your referring doctor, usually within one to two business days. Urgent results are fast-tracked.

Frequently asked questions

Will it hurt? No. You need to lie still. Contrast can cause a brief warm sensation.

Will I feel claustrophobic? Unlikely. The CT scanner is a short, open ring, not a tunnel.

Can I drive afterwards? Yes, unless told otherwise.

Do I need to stop medications? Usually no. Follow any specific instructions you received.

Ready to book

Have your referral handy so we can confirm preparation and appointment times.