A patient who is scheduled to have a renal ultrasound tells a nurse, “I am afrai

1 -- A renal ultrasound is a noninvasive test conducted to detect renal or perirenal masses, identify obstructions, and diagnose renal cysts and solid masses. It is done by applying a conductive gel to the skin and placing a small external ultrasound probe on the patient’s skin. Sound waves are recorded on a computer as they are reflected off tissues. There is no discomfort associated with the test and pain medications are not needed. When the patient understands the typical experience for a patient having this test, fears of a painful experience will be addressed and resolved.