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PET CT Scan Checklist: Everything to Do Before Your Appointment

A PET CT scan combines two imaging tools into one test giving doctors a detailed look at how your organs and tissues are working. It is a key tool in cancer imaging and diagnostic imaging today. But preparation matters just as much as the scan itself. Small mistakes, like eating too soon, can mean repeating the whole process. This checklist covers what to do before your PET CT scan, so you walk in feeling calm and ready.

Why Preparing for a PET CT Scan Is Important

Preparation is not just a formality; it directly affects how clear your images turn out. When your body is ready the right way the tracer moves through your system properly, giving radiologists a sharp picture to work from.

Skipping steps in your PET CT scan preparation can lead to blurry results or a repeat scan. Good preparation means:

• Better image quality for your radiologist to review
• More accurate diagnosis the first time around
• Fewer chances of needing a repeat PET CT scan
• A quicker less stressful appointment overall

Complete PET CT Scan Checklist Before Your Appointment

1. Verify Your Appointment

• Please call the centre one or two days prior to your PET CT scan appointment to confirm.
• Date, time and location confirmed
• Save centre telephone number 

2. Know Requirements of Fasting

• Preparation for a PET CT scan requires fasting. Eating too early will impact the way the tracer moves through your body.
• Do not eat 4-6 hours prior to the scan or as advised
• Avoid sugary drinks chewing gum and sweets while fasting
• Follow specific PET CT scan instructions given. Timing varies by hospital 

3. Drink water

• Water is generally good even when fasting and it helps your veins for the injection.
• Drink plenty of plain water unless otherwise directed
• Avoid Flavored Water, Juice and Soda 

4.Tell your doctor about your medications

• Some medicines can affect your PET CT scan results.
• List all medicines, supplements and vitamins you take
• Ask about taking regular doses on scan day
• List any recent contrast dye or imaging tests 

5. Inform Your Doctor About Diabetes

• This is important for diabetics as the tracer behaviour is affected by blood sugar levels.
• Bring recent blood sugar readings, if requested
• Ask about insulin handling pre-scan
• Any recent episodes of hypoglycemia?

6. skip heavy exercise before scan

• Muscles also pick up the tracer, so high activity the day before can distort results.
• Skip gym sessions for 24 hours prior to
• Light, Normal Movement Only

7. Wear Comfortable Clothes

• You are going to be lying still for a while, comfort is important.
• Wear loose fitting clothing without metal zippers or buttons
• Most centres will provide a gown to change into

8. Remove Metal Items

• Metal can create artifacts in imaging so it is best to remove it first.
• Remove jewellery, wrist watches and piercings.
• Take away hairpins, belts and metal accessories
• if needed removable with caregiver leave dental metal

9. Bring Past Medical Reports

• Previous reports provide the radiologist with a useful reference point.
• Bring previous PET CT scan, MRI or CT reports
• Bring a referral letter or a prescription 

10. Advice to Staff on Pregnancy or Breast-Feeding

• If you have ANY doubts, do NOT skip this safety step.
• Inform the technician if you are or might be pregnant.
• If you are currently breast feeding, say so
• Ask about alternative timing if necessary 

11. Get there early

• Getting there early makes it more relaxed instead of rushed.
• Please arrive at the centre 15-20 minutes before the scheduled start time.
• Bring your referral paperwork and valid ID with you 

12. Waiting Period Preparation

• The time elapsed between injection of the tracer and start of the scan
• Sitting quietly for 45-60 minutes after injection is expected
• Bring headphones or something to chill you out
• Do not move about too much, as this will help the tracer distribute evenly. 

13. Know What Happens During the Procedure

• The entire PET CT scan process is much less intimidating when you know what to expect.
• You will lie on a padded table that slides into the scanner
• The scan itself takes 20–30 minutes
• You will stay still, but the process is painless 

14. Follow Instructions After the Scan

Your role does not end when the scan finishes.

• Drink plenty of water to flush out the tracer
• Avoid close contact with pregnant women or young children for a few hours
• Ask when to expect your reports and follow-up 

Common Mistakes Patients Should Avoid

Even well-meaning patients slip up. Watch for these common mistakes before your PET CT scan:

• If you eat before the end of the fast, the tracer uptake may be affected and the results may not be accurate. This may occur due to a small meal.
• Exercising before the scan: This helps direct the tracer to your muscles, and not to the areas needing imaging.
• Forgetting prior reports: Radiologists miss important context for comparison.
• Wearing jewelry: Metal causes artifacts that blur the images.
• Not reporting medications: Some medications, can affect results.
• Late arrival: This results in injection timing delay, and schedule disruption. 

General recommendations are always secondary to the instructions your doctor gives you specifically, since each patients situation is different. If you have any questions about preparing for your PET CT scan, contact your center.

For a reliable diagnostic center for PET CT Scan, ScansWorld offers cutting-edge imaging technology, knowledgeable radiologists, and empathetic patient care. Schedule an appointment with ScansWorld today for accurate, timely and comfortable diagnostic services.