Scan Standard Operating Procedure
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Diagnostic Imaging, Patient Safety & Radiology Operations
The Radiology Department is responsible for providing safe, accurate and timely diagnostic imaging services that support effective patient care. Radiologists, Radiographers and Imaging Technicians shall perform all procedures in accordance with applicable laws, Hospital policies, radiation safety regulations and NABH standards while ensuring patient safety, image quality and confidentiality.
"Every imaging procedure shall be performed safely, accurately and only upon a valid medical request."
Applicable Laws & Standards
- Atomic Energy Act, 1962.
- Atomic Energy (Radiation Protection) Rules, 2004.
- AERB Safety Code for Medical Diagnostic X-ray Equipment.
- Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010 (where applicable).
- Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.
- NABH Care of Patients (COP) Standards.
- NABH Human Resource Management (HRM) Standards.
Core Responsibilities
- Perform diagnostic imaging only against a valid prescription or imaging request.
- Verify patient identity before every scan or imaging procedure.
- Explain the procedure and obtain necessary consent wherever required.
- Ensure patient safety and comfort throughout the examination.
- Operate imaging equipment according to approved procedures.
- Maintain high-quality diagnostic images.
- Maintain complete imaging records and reports.
- Follow radiation safety protocols and use protective equipment where applicable.
- Coordinate with doctors, nursing staff and other departments for timely patient care.
Imaging Records
- Maintain accurate patient imaging records.
- Ensure images and reports are stored securely.
- Protect patient confidentiality at all times.
- Release reports only to authorised persons in accordance with Hospital policy.
Imaging Safety, Report Management & Professional Responsibilities
"No diagnostic imaging procedure shall be performed without proper patient identification and a valid medical request."
Radiation Safety
- Follow all applicable radiation safety regulations and Hospital protocols.
- Verify patient identity before every imaging procedure.
- Confirm pregnancy status where clinically indicated before radiation exposure.
- Use radiation protective devices such as lead aprons, thyroid shields and other approved protective equipment whenever required.
- Apply the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle to minimise radiation exposure.
- Immediately report any equipment malfunction or radiation safety incident.
Imaging Reports & Documentation
- Ensure all imaging studies are accurately documented.
- Forward images and reports promptly to the treating doctor.
- Immediately communicate critical or life-threatening findings to the treating doctor or Emergency Department.
- Maintain secure storage of imaging records in accordance with Hospital policy.
- Release reports only to authorised persons.
Equipment Maintenance & Quality Assurance
- Operate only authorised and calibrated imaging equipment.
- Perform routine equipment quality checks as scheduled.
- Document preventive maintenance and service records.
- Do not use defective equipment until declared safe for operation.
- Maintain cleanliness and readiness of imaging rooms.
Serious Violations
- Performing imaging without a valid medical request.
- Failure to verify patient identity before scanning.
- Ignoring radiation safety precautions.
- Disclosure of confidential patient or imaging information.
- Failure to communicate critical imaging findings promptly.
- Falsification or alteration of imaging records or reports.
- Operating defective or unauthorised imaging equipment.
Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with this SOP, applicable radiation safety regulations, Hospital policies or NABH standards may result in counselling, retraining, competency reassessment, suspension of imaging duties or disciplinary action, depending on the seriousness of the violation. Patient safety, radiation protection and diagnostic accuracy shall remain the highest priorities.