What to Expect: Nuclear Medicine Test | Cedars-Sinai

Summary

This video explains what to expect during a nuclear medicine test at Cedars-Sinai, including the process of receiving a radioactive tracer, preparation instructions, and the steps involved in the test. It details the procedure, the role of the imaging staff, and how the test helps doctors evaluate organ function. The video also clarifies the potential for delays and provides information on the time frame for various tests. It reassures patients about the low radiation exposure and highlights the importance of specialized doctors reviewing the results for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Takeaways

• 😀 Nuclear medicine tests use radioactive tracers to help doctors see how organs are functioning.
• 😀 The radiation exposure during a nuclear medicine test is very low and not harmful.
• 😀 Tracers are usually administered via an IV, but other methods may be used depending on the test.
• 😀 Most nuclear medicine tests do not require special preparation, with some exceptions like the PET CT scan.
• 😀 Patients undergoing PET CT scans may need to follow a special low-carb diet before the test.
• 😀 Imaging transporters will assist you by taking you to the imaging department for your test.
• 😀 It's advised to visit the bathroom before leaving your room for the test.
• 😀 Patients will be asked the same questions multiple times for safety purposes.
• 😀 Delays may occur due to different types of imaging procedures or emergency situations, but you'll be attended to as soon as possible.
• 😀 PET scan patients will wait 60-90 minutes for the tracer to target the necessary body areas before the exam.
• 😀 During the scan, specialized cameras will capture images of the body to detect the radioactive material and help doctors assess organ function.
• 😀 The length of most nuclear medicine scans ranges from 1 to 4 hours, with some tests requiring multiple scans over 2 to 3 days.
• 😀 After the exam, the results will be reviewed by a specialist and then shared with your doctor for discussion and treatment planning.
• 😀 After your scan, you'll be moved to the post-scan area and transported back to your room.

Q & A

What is the purpose of a nuclear medicine test?

A nuclear medicine test uses radioactive substances called tracers to help doctors see how organs in your body are working.

Is the radiation exposure during a nuclear medicine test dangerous?

The radioactivity you are exposed to during a nuclear medicine test is very low and will not hurt you. The benefits of the test far outweigh the small exposure to radiation.

How is the radioactive tracer administered?

Most tracers are given through an IV, but depending on the test, the tracer may be administered in other ways. A nurse, doctor, or nuclear medicine staff member will explain how it is given.

Do nuclear medicine tests require special preparation?

Most nuclear medicine tests don't require special preparation. However, some tests like a PET CT scan may require a low carbohydrate diet or other specific instructions.

What should I expect when I go to the imaging department for my test?

A transporter will take you to the imaging department, where you may be asked some safety questions by the staff. You should also use the bathroom before the test, if possible.

Why might there be delays in the imaging department?

Delays can happen because other patients may be having different procedures or emergencies. However, the staff will do their best to minimize waiting times.

What happens during a PET scan?

For PET scans, the radioactive tracer is given in the imaging department. After that, you will wait for 60-90 minutes for the tracer to reach the areas of the body that need to be examined.

How long does the nuclear medicine scan take?

The scan usually lasts from 1 to 4 hours. Some tests may require scans over the course of 2 to 3 days.

Will I receive the results of my nuclear medicine test right away?

No, your technologist cannot give you the results. The exam will first be read by a specialized imaging doctor, and the results will be sent to your doctor for further discussion.

What happens after the nuclear medicine test is finished?

After the test, you will be moved to a post-scan area, and then a transporter will take you back to your room.