What should be done for unstable patients before performing any imaging procedures?

For unstable patients, the primary concern is to ensure their safety and well-being before any diagnostic procedures, including imaging. Addressing symptoms and stabilizing the patient is critical because imaging should not exacerbate any existing health issues or compromise the patient's condition further.

When a patient is unstable, they may present with vital sign abnormalities, acute distress, or other life-threatening conditions. Intervening at this stage to manage their symptoms—such as providing oxygen, intravenous fluids, medications, or other appropriate measures—ensures that they are in a safer condition to undergo imaging studies. This approach also allows healthcare providers to obtain more accurate imaging results without the interference of acute medical issues.

Conducting a full medical history or ordering tests irrespective of the patient's condition can delay critical interventions and may lead to adverse outcomes. Proceeding to imaging immediately without stabilization can place the patient at further risk and potentially obstruct necessary medical attention. Thus, prioritizing stabilization is fundamental in clinical practice to promote patient safety and effective treatment planning.