Curious to know how an isotope scan is done? Check it out!
During such a scan, "isotopes" or radioactive particles are administered. They emit an invisible radiation that is captured by a special camera that then makes a scan of it. This is done on one of the above devices.
You come early in the morning to have a liquid injected. A small prick will be made in your arm with a wing needle. The needle stays in place for a while to inject the liquid. When the substance has been injected completely, the nurse removes the needle.
Now the liquid can spread all over your body. This will take some time. Therefore, you may go home or to your room for a while. The nurse will tell you when you can come back for the rest of the test. At home or in your room, you should drink some extra water.
Before you come back for the second part of the examination, make sure to go to the toilet. The second part takes a little longer. The nurse will explain how to lie or sit on the examination table. Sometimes two or more scans are needed.
The examination does not hurt and the device only makes a soft hum. It comes very close to your body, but will never touch you.
The table is sometimes stationary during the examination, but it may also move a little in some cases. During the examination it is important that you lie or sit very still, otherwise the photos will not be any good. You can bring your cuddly toy. So they can also find out what the isotope scan is about.
When the examination is over, you may return home or to your room in the hospital. The isotope service will give you a few more guidelines.
