For first-time patients experiencing a cardiac PET scan, they feel a little nervous about the process and what to expect along the way. Patients who aren’t familiar with cardiac PET scans may need a little bit of extra attention to feel comfortable during the scan.

Explain the Minimal Risks

Cardiac PET imaging is a safe process for most people, and there is a minimal amount of radiation exposure during the scan due to the short half-life of Rubidium-82. We let patients know that the small amount of radiation in their system will be eliminated through the kidneys in just over 6 minutes after the exam.

Keep Them Comfortable

Physical comfort is another factor to consider during a patient’s cardiac PET scan. We keep several simple leg and arm cushions at the ready to provide important back support for our patients and make them feel more at ease.

The right lighting and ventilation can play a role in keeping your patients comfortable and even relaxed throughout the scan. We recommended keeping a blanket nearby in the case that a patient is cold.

Encourage Them to Ask Questions

The unknown, lingering questions about what is happening during the scan can make patients feel uneasy. Encourage them to ask any questions that come to mind to help them gain peace of mind.

An open conversation will help put a patient at ease and encourage them to speak up if they feel uncomfortable or nervous.

Contact Us with More Questions

The right approach can make all of the difference in making your patients feel comfortable and relaxed during their cardiac PET scan. If you have more questions or if you want to learn more, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.