Tests and Treatments

During the course of your stay at Newton Memorial Hospital, it is likely that your Physician will order a number of tests and treatments in order to diagnose and manage your care. Your care is coordinated so each test will be done in a safe and timely manner. Each of our departments is staffed with highly skilled professionals that will make every effort to keep you comfortable during each procedure.

We have provided some information about the many departments that may provide your care and to explain the possible wait time for tests and treatments. Our goal is to provide very good care for all patients whether on an emergent, inpatient, or outpatient basis.

CARDIOLOGY:
This department performs a wide variety of tests needed to diagnosis your hearts' problem or complaint. This may include an EKG, Holter monitoring, pacemaker checks or echocardiograms; all of which are noninvasive and can be completed either in our department or at your bedside.

Other more complex procedures such as stress testing or transesophageal echocardiograms require intravenous access for medications, important monitoring equipment, and professional staff in conjunction with your physician. These tests may take three or more hours to complete. Our goal is to provide individual care while achieving conclusive diagnostic information.

LABORATORY:
Blood tests are drawn at various times of the day and night as needed to provide optimum results. Some tests require a two to twenty-four hour processing time; others can require a longer period of time for accurate results. Once the results are available, your physician is provided with your reports. Your physician will then direct your care with your input. Our goal is to provide our customers, both patient and physician, with accurate and timely information.

RADIOLOGY:
This department specializes in viewing the body from the inside or out depending on the procedure. Many procedures may require you to follow some simple restrictions, others may require more lengthy preparations. Some tests, we will need you to wait while your "pictures" are being developed.

Our goal is to keep you comfortable, and respect your dignity.

REHABILITATION:
Should your care require services from the Physical, Occupational or Speech Therapy Departments, a therapist will visit you within twenty-four hours of receiving the order from your physician. Our plan is to assist in restoring or maximizing your ability to walk, speak, swallow, or live independently and safely.

RESPIRATORY:
At your physician's discretion, a respiratory therapist may provide tests and treatments to monitor or improve your breathing status. These treatments may be given at different times of the day or night, depending on your condition. We hope to make your breathing comfortable and your hospitalization short.

INTRAVENOUS THERAPY:
Fluid therapy may be a basic part of your medical treatment. To administer fluids intravenously a certified intravenous nurse will insert a catheter into your vein. This procedure can be painful depending on your medical condition, although every effort will be made to keep you comfortable.