What is the best way to help a patient remember to schedule an annual breast examination?
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Tips for Getting a Mammogram
A mammogram is an important step in taking care of yourself and your breasts. Whether you’re a mammogram newbie or a veteran, knowing what to expect may help the process go more smoothly.
Don’t be afraid of mammograms! Remember that only about 2 to 4 screening mammograms in 1,000 lead to a diagnosis of breast cancer. What to tell your technologistTo help ensure you have a good quality mammogram, make sure your technologist knows:
Tell the technologist right away if you start feeling lightheaded or dizzy during the mammogram. What to expect when getting a screening mammogram
What to expect when getting a diagnostic mammogramA diagnostic mammogram is often done if a woman has breast symptoms or if something unusual is seen on a screening mammogram. The basic procedure is similar to that for a screening mammogram, but there are some differences.
How will I get my mammogram results?A full report of the results of your mammogram will be sent to your health care provider. If you don’t hear from your health care provider within 10 days, do not assume that your mammogram was normal. Call your provider or the facility where the mammogram was done. The mammography facility also must provide you with an easy-to-understand summary of your mammogram results within 30 days—or “as quickly as possible” if the results suggest something abnormal is present. If you have online access to your medical records, such as through a patient portal, your results might show up there at the same time your health care provider gets them. This means you could get the results before your health care provider contacts you. Be sure to go over the results with your provider, especially if there's anything you don't understand. We can help you learn more about how to understand your mammogram report. American Cancer Society medical information is copyrighted material. For reprint requests, please see our Content Usage Policy. Mammograms
What is the best way to help a patient remember to schedule next year's appointment?What is the best way to help a patient remember to schedule next year's appointment? Place the patients name in a tickler file so when the time arrives a form can be sent to remind the patient to call for an appointment. Appointment reminders include appointment cards, reminder mailings, reminder calls and ____.
What is the best way to examine your breast?Look at your breasts and feel each breast and armpit, and up to your collarbone. You may find it easiest to do this in the shower or bath, by running a soapy hand over each breast and up under each armpit. You can also look at your breasts in the mirror. Look with your arms by your side and also with them raised.
What are 3 essential steps in breast self examination?Sit or stand shirtless and braless in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides. To inspect your breasts visually, do the following: Face forward and look for puckering, dimpling, or changes in size, shape or symmetry. Check to see if your nipples are turned in (inverted).
What specific factors are important to look for in the breast examination?All women should check their breasts for lumps, thicknesses and other changes every month. By examining your breasts regularly, you will know how your breasts normally feel. If a change should happen in your breasts, you will be able to identify it and let your doctor know.
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