Nuclear Medicine Preparation Instructions

All Patients Must

  • Checkmark Bring your valid health card to your appointment.
  • Checkmark Arrive 20 minutes early to register.
  • Checkmark Refrain from wearing scents (we are a scent-free environment).

Please follow the specific exam instructions below. These instructions are important and must be followed.

GNMI Patient Preparation

Nuclear Medicine Preparation

Hepatobiliary Scan

  • Checkmark Fast for at least 4 hours (but not more than 12 hours).

Renal Scan

  • Checkmark Drink 2 large glasses of water (about 500 ml / 20 oz) 30–60 minutes prior.
  • Checkmark You may void before the exam.

Thyroid Uptake and Scan

  • Checkmark Fast for 4 hours.
  • Checkmark Discontinue thyroid hormones (Levothyroxine/Synthroid) for 4–6 weeks and PTU/Tapazole for 1 week.
  • Checkmark Do not take multivitamins or iodine-rich foods (kale, kelp, seaweed).
  • Checkmark Important: Check with your doctor before stopping any thyroid medications.

Nuclear Cardiology Preparation

  • Checkmark No caffeine for 24 hours: no coffee, tea (including decaf/herbal/green), chocolate, cola, or caffeine-containing medications (Tylenol #1–3, Excedrin Migraine).
  • Checkmark Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior. (If diabetic → light meal allowed.)
  • Checkmark Bring a list of all prescription medications.
  • Checkmark
    Consult your doctor about stopping certain medications before the test:
    • Check Beta Blockers: 48 hrs prior
    • Check Erectile Dysfunction Rx: 72 hrs prior
    • Check Calcium Channel Blockers: 24 hrs prior
    • Check Do Not stop medication on your own.

Stress Test Preparation

  • Checkmark Wear comfortable clothing and running shoes for the exercise stress test.