Positron Emission Tomography, commonly known as a PET scan, is an advanced diagnostic imaging technique. It utilizes radioactive substances to visualize and measure metabolic activity in the body. Understanding the necessary pre and post care steps for a PET scan is crucial for ensuring patient safety and the accuracy of the results. This guide, designed for patients undergoing a PET scan, outlines essential instructions to follow before, during, and after the procedure.
Pre-Procedure Care: Preparing for Your PET Scan
Proper preparation is vital for a successful PET scan. To ensure the best possible outcome, please adhere to the following guidelines:
Important Safety Information
- Allergies and Adverse Reactions: Inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies, especially to medications or contrast materials used in imaging procedures.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or suspect you might be, it is imperative to notify your doctor and the radiology technologist prior to the scan. PET scans involve radiation, and precautions may need to be taken.
- Valuables: It is advisable to leave valuable personal items at home or secure them in a hospital-provided safe space.
- Interpreter Services: If you require language interpretation services, please inform the medical staff in advance so arrangements can be made to ensure clear communication.
- Medication List: Bring a comprehensive list of all current medications you are taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. This is particularly important for out-patient procedures.
Specific Preparations Before the Scan
- Limited Carbohydrate Diet: For 24 hours leading up to your PET scan appointment, follow a limited carbohydrate diet as instructed by your healthcare provider. This dietary restriction helps to optimize the quality of the scan images.
- Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything except water for at least 6 hours before your scheduled exam. You are encouraged to drink plenty of water up until your arrival for the scan. Hydration is beneficial for the procedure.
- Medications: Continue taking your routine medications as prescribed, unless you have received specific instructions to adjust them. If you are diabetic, you may take your diabetes medication, ideally no less than 4 hours before the exam to manage your blood sugar levels effectively.
- Arrival Time: Plan to arrive at the imaging center or hospital 15 to 30 minutes prior to your scheduled PET scan. This allows sufficient time for check-in and any necessary pre-scan procedures.
- Identification and Exam Verification: Upon arrival, the technologist will confirm your identity and the type of exam you are scheduled for to ensure accuracy.
- Contrast Screening Form: You will be provided with a contrast screening form to complete. This form helps to identify any potential contraindications for contrast administration.
- Lab Tests: In certain cases, your doctor may order preliminary lab tests before the administration of contrast material to assess kidney function and other relevant health indicators.
- Contrast Administration: Contrast agents are often used in PET scans to enhance the clarity and detail of the images. If deemed necessary by the radiologist, a small intravenous (IV) line will be inserted into a vein in your arm. Both the contrast and the radioactive isotope will be administered through this IV line. The contrast material is naturally eliminated from your body by your kidneys.
During the PET Scan Procedure
The PET scan procedure itself is generally straightforward, but understanding what to expect can help alleviate anxiety:
- Exam Duration: The duration of a PET scan can vary, typically lasting around 2 hours on average. This timeframe includes preparation, scanning, and observation periods.
- Positioning and Instructions: The technologist will assist you in getting comfortably positioned on the exam table. During the scan, it is crucial to remain as still as possible. You may also be instructed to hold your breath for brief periods at certain points during the image acquisition.
- Questions: You will have the opportunity to ask the technologists any questions you may have before, during, or after the procedure. They are there to guide you through the process and ensure your comfort.
Post-Procedure Care: What to Do After Your PET Scan
After your PET scan is complete, following these aftercare instructions is important:
- Hydration: It is recommended to drink approximately 5 glasses of water after the procedure. This helps to flush the radioactive tracer and contrast material out of your system more quickly.
- Breastfeeding: Nursing mothers should wait for 24 hours before resuming breastfeeding to minimize any potential exposure of the radioactive tracer to the infant.
- Monitoring for Symptoms: Be attentive to any unusual symptoms you might experience after the scan. If you notice any symptoms such as nasal congestion, itchy eyes, hives, rashes, sneezing, restlessness, tremors, pain, nausea, vomiting, or dizziness, inform the medical staff immediately while you are still at the facility. The staff is trained to manage these situations promptly. If you experience any of these symptoms after you have left, contact your doctor or proceed to the nearest emergency room for evaluation. For severe, life-threatening symptoms, call 911 immediately.
By following these pre and post care instructions, you contribute to the safety and effectiveness of your PET scan, ensuring the best possible diagnostic outcome.
