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Practical InformationPreparation to the ExamA guide to preparing your Nuclear Medicine examination: what you should do prior to and during your appointment, and relevant information on potential contra-indications and medicine intake. by Eric Laurent, MD, CHIREC Group, Belgium
Most Nuclear Medicine exams allow you to eat and drink as normal. However, some procedures require prior fasting. In particular, cardiac physical exams, digestive explorations or again pet scans. This will be reminded to you when making the appointment. Plan to wear easy-to-remove clothing allowing access to a vein in the elbow. Concerning the myocardial scintigraphy during effort, you will be asked to bring clothes which facilitate effort testing on an ergonometric bicycle. In most cases, you can continue taking your usual medicine. If this is not possible, you will be indicated so when making the appointment. Proper hydration is necessary to facilitate the elimination of the products which will be injected into you. If required, you will be asked to bring a bottle of water with you. Bring something to read, as some exams require you remain inside the department for a few hours. Radio-isotope investigations are contraindicated for pregnant women. Please inform the staff of any possible pregnancy prior to the injection. Breast-feeding will sometimes have to be interrupted during a short time. In most cases, mother’s milk can be collected and reused a little later.
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Plan to be on time at the appointment. This enables the personnel to welcome you in the best possible conditions, and also to explain the exam process to you in detail. If you are late, your appointment could be postponed.