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Having a Nuclear Medicine Scan

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Your doctor has asked for us to do a nuclear medicine scan, which is like having a picture taken of the inside of your body. This helps the doctors understand how to make you feel better.

 

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A grown up can come with you into the room if you want them to – this can be discussed when you come for your scan.

 

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You might need to wear a hospital gown but only if you need to, otherwise you can wear your own clothes.

 

Picture of injection needle.gifYou will need to be given an injection with a small needle to give you a medication which will show up on the scan – this medication will stay in your body for a day, but you do not need to do anything to remove it. 

 

Picture of a scanner.gifDepending on what certain scan you are going to have, you might be scanned straight away after the injection, or you may need to wait a few hours. If this is the case, you will be asked to come back for the scan later in the day.

 

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During the scan, you are always seen and heard by the grown-ups looking after you even if they are not stood next to you. You will need to stay as still as you can.

 

picture of a house.gifOnce your scan is finished and we have checked you don’t need any other pictures taken, you can go home (or back to the clinic or ward if you were on one). There will be a few instructions that you and your grown-up will need to follow for the day after your scan.

Contact us

If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Radiology service.

About this information

Service:
Radiology

Reference:
PILS-NM.26

Approval date:
7 March 2025

Review date:
7 March 2028

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Important note 

This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.