Optimizing Patient Preparation for PET Scanning

Preparation Parameters:

• Diabetic patients are instructed to take their diabetic medication and have a light meal in early AM; study is scheduled for early PM
   
• Have patients arrive with ample time for parking and registration
   
• Schedule PET Scan prior to any other Nuclear Medicine Scan and before CT if both are on the same day
   
• Contact patients the day prior to their scheduled appointment
   
• Instruct patient to refrain from strenuous activity on the day of the scan
   
• Schedule patient and isotope delivery in a timely manner
   
• Before injection: explain test step-by-step, including injection and imaging procedures, need for urinary catheterization; risks and benefits of the test
   
• Communicate the need for patient cooperation
   
• Prep-low sugar breakfast, NPO for 4 to 6 hrs
   
• Sugar-free liquids only post injection
   
• 60-90 minute injection-to-scan interval
   
• Scan duration- 20 to 60 minutes depending on anatomical area to be scanned
   
• Sedation possible if required- Pt needs to contact Physician if necessary ahead of time

Patient Issues:

• Abnormal Muscle Uptake

• Patient Issues

• Technologist Responsibilities

• Dose Injection Sheet

• Safe Injection Technique

• Pediatric Considerations

• Patient Dosimetry

• FDG uptake:Normal variants and Artifact

  • Normal Areas of F-18 FDG Uptake in Chest & Abdomen/Pelvis

  • Muscle Uptake in whole body PET imaging

  • Artifact from Nervous Tongue, excessive

  • Excessive Muscle Activity

  • Injection of F-18 FDG for PET brain imaging in a bright room

• Quality PET imaging requirements