Doing a PET scan is not simply lying still in a machine, that’s just the final and easiest part.
First of all, no food is allowed 12 hours before the scan, and no drinks 6 hours before. Those who have drug allergies are also required to take steroids.
The prep work begins by putting a tiny plastic tube into the blood vessel with a connector on the exterior end that allows syringes to connect easily so the needle “suffering” only happens once.
A litre of water is then given. It is used to wash down whatever is left in the system.
Then comes the injection of radioactive liquid tracer, as seen in the picture. It is SO radioactive even the syringe is covered with a metal casing and it’s placed in a metal box.
This is then followed by 10 mins of isolation in order to contain the radioactivity within the room.
Afterwards comes another litre of liquid that contains glucose. I can’t really describe the taste, it’s kinda like a diluted yoghurt drink but one that makes you want to vomit (at least the first time I drank it). Now after 5 times I drink it down like it’s my favourite thirst quencher.
Saving the best for last! Right before the scan, a tiny bottle of cream, the “Dessert” is served!! This little bottle makes everyone throws up the first time. It’s supposed to stick to your throat for the scanning of that area.
At last, finally about 20 mins in the PET Scan machine by GE!
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