Question

The client is scheduled for a positron emission tomography (PETT) scan. Which action indicates the nurse is aware of the needs of the client during the PET scan? A. The nurse checks the client's blood glucose level prior to the procedure. B. The nurse inserts a nasogastric tube for lavage to monitor gastric \(\mathrm{pH}\). C. The nurse tells the client that a catheter will be inserted into his brachial artery. D. The nurse informs the client that he will be asleep during the procedure.

Short answer

#Answer# The nurse should check the client's blood glucose level prior to the procedure. This action is relevant to the needs of the client during a PET scan, as it helps ensure accurate results and proper preparation for the test.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding PET Scans

A positron emission tomography (PET) scan is a nuclear imaging test that allows doctors to check for diseases in the body. A small amount of a radioactive substance is used during the exam, and a special camera is used to see organs and tissues inside the body. It is essential to know the proper preparation for a PET scan to ensure accurate results.

Option A: Checking Blood Glucose Levels

Prior to a PET scan, it is crucial to check the client's blood glucose levels. High glucose levels can affect the distribution of the radioactive substance used in the scan and may lead to inaccurate results. Additionally, patients are usually instructed to fast for several hours before the test, which can impact blood sugar levels, so it's essential to monitor them.

Option B: Inserting a Nasogastric Tube for Lavage

Inserting a nasogastric tube for lavage to monitor gastric pH is not relevant to a PET scan. Lavage is typically used for certain gastrointestinal procedures and is not necessary for a PET scan.

Option C: Inserting a Catheter into the Brachial Artery

A catheter is not inserted into the brachial artery during a PET scan. Instead, a small amount of a radioactive substance is typically injected into a vein in the patient's arm. Inserting a catheter into the brachial artery is not relevant to the PET scan procedure.

Option D: Informing the Client He Will Be Asleep During the Procedure

The client does not need to be asleep during the PET scan. The process is generally painless, and the patient remains awake, though they must lie still during the scan.

Correct Answer

The correct answer is A. The nurse checks the client's blood glucose level prior to the procedure. This action is relevant to the needs of the client during a PET scan, as it helps ensure accurate results and proper preparation for the test.