Nuclear Medicine uses radioactive material to create diagnostic images that help doctors visualize the function of organs and detect diseases in the body. The radioactive material is administered orally or intravenously and causes no unwanted side effects. Body parts examined with nuclear medicine include the thyroid, heart, gallbladder, liver, bones and stomach.

The Nuclear Medicine Department is located on the 3rd floor of the WHS Washington Hospital. To schedule or cancel a Nuclear Medicine exam, call (724) 223-3110.

Frequently Asked Questions

Monday through Friday, 7 am-4 pm

Yes. You or your physician may call (724) 223-3110 to schedule your exam. It is very important for you to be on time for your appointment. To cancel a scan, please call (724) 223-3110, at least 72 hours prior to your exam.

Yes. Please bring your prescription to your exam. Otherwise, your exam may be delayed.

As long as there are no metal snaps, buttons or zippers on your shirt or pants, you can wear your own clothing.

Most material used has a six-hour half-life, meaning one-half of the radioactive material is gone in six hours. Most or all of the material is gone within 48 hours.

In most cases, yes. Check with your Nuclear Medicine Department to make sure.

Most scans give radiation equal to one chest x-ray.

Common Nuclear Medicine Tests

  • No restrictions for medications, food or fluids
  • Exam takes approximately three hours
  • No eating and no drinking fluids for four hours prior to test, and no narcotics or pain medicine for 6 hours prior to test
  • Exam takes approximately one and a half to three hours
  • No eating or no drinking fluids for four hours prior to test
  • No caffeine for 12 hours prior to test
  • No nicotine for 24 hours prior to test
  • Exam takes approximately three­ to four hours
  • No restrictions for food or fluids
  • Exam takes approximately one to one and a half hours for scanning
  • This is a 3 part exam that will take place over 2 days
  • Food and fluids are allowed prior
  • Do not take diuretics (water medicines) or Lasix the day of the test.
  • Exam takes approximately one and a half to two hours
  • No eating and no drinking fluids for four hours prior to test; no Reglan (medication) six hours prior
  • Exam takes approximately four hours
  • No restrictions including medications, food or fluids
  • Total exam time will be approximately one hour