What to Do for a PET Scan: A Practical Guide
Learn how to prepare for a PET scan, what to expect during the procedure, and how to interpret results. Practical steps, safety tips, and questions to ask your clinician.
If you're wondering what to do for a PET scan, this guide walks you through preparation, what to expect during the procedure, and how to discuss results with your doctor. You’ll learn how to prepare, what to bring, and how to plan for aftercare. The steps are practical, patient-centered, and designed to reduce confusion during this medical imaging process.
What PET scanning is and when it is used
PET, or positron emission tomography, is a functional imaging technique that helps clinicians visualize metabolic activity in tissues and organs. Unlike traditional anatomical scans, a PET scan shows how cells are functioning, which can be crucial for detecting cancer, assessing response to therapy, and evaluating brain or heart conditions. The scan is often combined with an anatomic imaging method (like CT or MRI) to provide precise location information. If you’re wondering what to do pet scan, this article explains the preparation, what happens during the procedure, and how to interpret the results in practical terms. According to Scanner Check analysis, understanding the purpose and the steps involved can ease anxiety and improve communication with your care team.
Before scheduling a PET scan, your clinician will review your medical history and current medications to determine if the scan is appropriate and safe for you. This decision hinges on factors such as recent imaging needs, diagnostic questions, and whether the tracer used in PET could interact with diabetes medications or other therapies. While the concept may feel technical, the core idea is straightforward: the test assesses cellular activity, helping guide treatment decisions. By knowing the goal of the scan, you can better prepare questions for your healthcare team and participate actively in your care.
What PET scanning is and when it is used
PET, or positron emission tomography, is a functional imaging technique that helps clinicians visualize metabolic activity in tissues and organs. Unlike traditional anatomical scans, a PET scan shows how cells are functioning, which can be crucial for detecting cancer, assessing response to therapy, and evaluating brain or heart conditions. The scan is often combined with an anatomic imaging method (like CT or MRI) to provide precise location information. If you’re wondering what to do pet scan, this article explains the preparation, what happens during the procedure, and how to interpret the results in practical terms. According to Scanner Check analysis, understanding the purpose and the steps involved can ease anxiety and improve communication with your care team.
Before scheduling a PET scan, your clinician will review your medical history and current medications to determine if the scan is appropriate and safe for you. This decision hinges on factors such as recent imaging needs, diagnostic questions, and whether the tracer used in PET could interact with diabetes medications or other therapies. While the concept may feel technical, the core idea is straightforward: the test assesses cellular activity, helping guide treatment decisions. By knowing the goal of the scan, you can better prepare questions for your healthcare team and participate actively in your care.
Before the scan: preparation steps and what to bring
Preparation for a PET scan focuses on safety, accuracy, and comfort. You will typically receive instructions about fasting and avoiding stimulants, but the exact requirements depend on the tracer used and the medical purpose. Wear comfortable clothing and remove metal jewelry or other items that could interfere with imaging. Bring a government-issued photo ID, your insurance information, and a list of current medications, including dosages and timing. If you have diabetes, kidney disease, or pregnancy concerns, share this information in advance so the team can tailor the plan. You may be asked to delay certain medications or adjust meals; follow your clinician’s guidance carefully to ensure a reliable result.
Before the scan: preparation steps and what to bring
Preparation for a PET scan focuses on safety, accuracy, and comfort. You will typically receive instructions about fasting and avoiding stimulants, but the exact requirements depend on the tracer used and the medical purpose. Wear comfortable clothing and remove metal jewelry or other items that could interfere with imaging. Bring a government-issued photo ID, your insurance information, and a list of current medications, including dosages and timing. If you have diabetes, kidney disease, or pregnancy concerns, share this information in advance so the team can tailor the plan. You may be asked to delay certain medications or adjust meals; follow your clinician’s guidance carefully to ensure a reliable result.
Medication and safety considerations: what you need to know
Your doctor may review medicines you take regularly to avoid interactions with the tracer, which is how PET imaging highlights metabolic activity. In some cases, certain drugs may need to be paused before the scan. Do not stop any medication without explicit guidance from your clinician. Hydration is usually encouraged unless instructed otherwise, and you should avoid caffeine and alcohol if advised. If you have a history of allergic reactions or radiation sensitivity, inform the staff so they can take appropriate precautions. Understanding these safety considerations helps you minimize risks and get the best possible image quality.
On the day of the scan: arrival, check-in, and what to bring
On the day of the PET scan, plan to arrive early for check-in. Bring your ID, insurance, and written orders from your clinician. Dressing in layers helps you stay comfortable during the waiting period and the scan itself. If you are undergoing anesthesia or sedation, arrange transportation home and inform the staff about any changes in your health since your referral. The facility will administer a tracer through an intravenous line, after which you’ll wait a brief period to allow the tracer to distribute. Staying still during the uptake phase is important for image accuracy.
What to expect during the PET scan: the imaging process
During the PET scan, you will lie on a table while the scanner images your body. The tracer emits small particles that are detected by the scanner, creating detailed maps of metabolic activity. The session may feel quiet and cold, and you may be asked to hold still for short intervals. In many cases, the scan is combined with a CT scan to offer precise anatomical context. If you are claustrophobic, speak up ahead of time; facilities often offer calming options or mild sedation in select cases. After the tracer uptake period, several imaging sequences are collected.
After the scan: interpreting results and next steps
PET findings are interpreted by a radiologist in collaboration with your treating physician. The results can help clarify the extent of disease, monitor how well a treatment is working, or guide future decisions. In some situations, additional tests or follow-up scans may be recommended. Your clinician will discuss the results with you, outlining what they mean in plain terms and what the next steps will be. If anything is unclear, ask for examples or visuals to help interpret the information.
Special considerations: children, claustrophobia, and diabetes
For pediatric patients, clinicians may adjust tracer doses and imaging protocols to reduce exposure while maintaining diagnostic quality. If you experience claustrophobia, consider pre-visit counseling or light sedation in collaboration with your healthcare team. People with diabetes may require specific fasting or insulin adjustments; communicate your diabetes management plan so the team can tailor the procedure. Clear communication, comfort measures, and planning help reduce stress and improve the scanning experience for these special populations.
Tools & Materials
- Photo ID(Bring government-issued photo identification for check-in and verification.)
- Medical referral or order(Documentation from your clinician outlining the reason for the PET scan.)
- List of current medications(Include dosages and timing; bring all prescriptions and over-the-counter meds.)
- Fasting instructions(Follow the clinician’s fasting guidance; some scans require avoiding food or drinks beyond water.)
- Comfortable clothing(Wear soft, metal-free clothing; remove jewelry and accessories that could interfere.)
- Transportation plan(Arrange a ride home if sedation is possible or if you feel unsteady after the tracer uptake period.)
- Glucose and diabetes info (if applicable)(Bring recent glucose readings and a list of diabetes medications to tailor prep.)
- Insurance information(Have insurance details handy for check-in and billing.)
Steps
Estimated time: 60-120 minutes
- 1
Confirm appointment details and consent
Verify the date, time, and facility. Ensure you understand the purpose of the scan and sign any required consent forms. If you have questions, write them down before the visit to avoid overlooking important points.
Tip: Bring a trusted companion to help remember instructions and ask questions. - 2
Review medications with your clinician
Provide a complete list of medications and supplements. Some drugs may affect tracer distribution or safety, so the team may adjust usage prior to the scan.
Tip: Do not modify medication without professional guidance. - 3
Follow pre-scan fasting and dietary guidance
Adhere to the clinician’s instructions regarding fasting or dietary restrictions. Hydration is usually encouraged unless stated otherwise.
Tip: If you have dietary questions, call the imaging center ahead of time. - 4
Prepare for the tracer administration
A tracer will be injected intravenously. You’ll then wait during tracer uptake, during which you should stay relaxed and still.
Tip: Ask about any sensations you might experience and how long the uptake window lasts. - 5
Arrange transportation and support
If sedation is possible or if you anticipate feeling unsteady afterward, arrange a ride home and inform the staff about your transportation plan.
Tip: Pack comfortable clothing and a water bottle if allowed. - 6
Check-in and preparation on arrival
Check-in with your ID and orders, then follow staff instructions about waiting areas and gown changes. Prepare mentally to remain still and calm.
Tip: Ask for a short break if you need to adjust position to reduce discomfort. - 7
Undergo the PET imaging session
You’ll lie still while the scanner captures metabolic activity. The session may involve multiple sequences and may be paired with a CT scan for anatomical context.
Tip: Communicate any movement or discomfort to the technologist immediately. - 8
Receive results planning and next steps
A radiologist interprets the images in conjunction with your clinician. Discuss interpretation, follow-up tests if needed, and what the results mean for your care plan.
Tip: Request written or visual explanations to share with family or other providers.
Common Questions
What should I wear to a PET scan?
Wear comfortable, metal-free clothing and remove jewelry. Some centers provide gowns; follow the facility’s specific guidance to keep imaging clear.
Wear comfortable clothing without metal and follow the center's gown policy; remove jewelry to ensure clear imaging.
Can pregnant people have PET scans?
PET scans involve radiotracers and radiation exposure, so they are generally avoided in pregnancy unless absolutely necessary and supervised by a physician.
PET scans use radiotracers and are usually avoided in pregnancy unless there’s a critical medical need and your doctor approves.
What preparation steps are required before a PET scan?
Follow your clinician’s instructions about fasting, medications, and hydration. Bring a medication list and relevant medical history to discuss potential interactions.
Follow fasting and medication guidance, bring a meds list, and share medical history to tailor the prep.
How long does a PET scan take?
The procedure itself and uptake period can take a portion of the day; most centers allocate time for preparation, tracer uptake, and imaging. Check with your facility for an estimated schedule.
It takes a part of the day, including preparation, tracer uptake, and imaging; ask your center for the exact timeline.
Are there risks or side effects from PET scans?
PET scans use a small amount of radiotracer; serious side effects are rare. Inform staff about allergies, kidney issues, or recent procedures.
Radiotracer exposure is usually low and side effects are rare; tell staff about allergies or kidney issues.
When will I get results and what do they mean?
A radiologist interprets the images with your clinician; results are discussed after analysis and may lead to follow-up tests or treatment changes.
A radiologist interprets the images and your clinician discusses the results with you, including next steps.
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Key Takeaways
- Follow your clinician’s prep instructions for safe, accurate imaging.
- Prepare documents and medications to streamline check-in.
- Plan transportation if sedation or extended waiting is possible.
- Ask about what the scan can reveal and how results inform care.
- Communicate openly with the care team to optimize the experience.
