Read
Formal Definition
The formal written interpretation of a radiological study by a board-certified radiologist, documenting findings, impressions, and clinical recommendations — the official medical record of the imaging result that drives clinical decision-making and billing.
How It's Used on the Ward
"The read is back" or "waiting on the read" — the official radiology report that arrives in the EMR after interpretation.
Example
""Attending at morning rounds: 'The CT read came back overnight — radiology is calling it a 4.5cm infrarenal AAA, no signs of rupture. Vascular surgery consult placed.' The read changed the entire management plan.""
Clinical Context
The radiology read is a legal document and a patient safety tool — it is NOT optional to review. The clinical team orders imaging and sees the images, but the radiologist's read may contain findings the ordering team missed, incidental findings requiring follow-up, or a different interpretation of the primary finding. Always review the final report. Incidental findings — a pulmonary nodule seen on CT chest ordered for PE workup — require follow-up documentation and patient notification.
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