
PET / CT Scan Instructions for Patients
How do I prepare for the procedure?
- Please do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your scan, except water.
- You should drink at least three 8 oz. cups of water between midnight and the time of your scan.
- If your arrival time is 12:30PM or later, you may have a light breakfast before 7:00 AM. For example: eggs, sausage, bacon. Do not have any sugar or caffeine.
- If you have a feeding tube, do not do any tube feedings the day of your test until after the scan is completed.
- Do not smoke after midnight the night before your scan.
- No vigorous exercise for 48 hours before your PET scan.
- You may take your routine medications the day of your scan, but take medications with water only.
- If you are diabetic, adjust your medications so your blood sugar level is normal when you come for your PET scan. HOWEVER, do NOT take insulin the day of your test. Diabetic pills are fine to take. If you are on an insulin pump, you will be asked to temporarily discontinue use before your PET scan.
- Wear comfortable clothing. Please try not to wear clothing with metal, such as underwire bras, zippers, or snaps. It would be best to wear items such as sweats or elastic waist pants.
- All patients will have their blood sugar level checked prior to the scan. If your blood sugar level is elevated, the scan may have to be cancelled.
- Your blood glucose level must be below 200. If you cannot keep your morning glucose level below 200 md/dL, please call your physician’s scheduling office by noon the day before your scan so we can reschedule your scan.
- There are no anticipated side effects from having a PET scan.
- The average time from your arrival to when the test is completed is about 3 hours.
- If for any reason you are unable to keep your appointment or have any questions about the test, please call our office at 901-683-0055 ext. 62728 as soon as possible.
Pregnancy Information:
This scan should NOT be performed on patients who are pregnant. If you think you may be pregnant, please inform your physician. If you are breastfeeding, mother’s milk should be substituted for 24 hours after the scan.
It is also strongly recommended that you stay away from pregnant women and young children under the age of 10 for 4 hours after you have completed your PET scan.
Transportation:
It is strongly recommended that you have a driver for this scan.
Questions:
Should you have any questions, please contact your care team or call 901-683-0055 ext. 62728.