Question

a liver scan is prescribed for a client prior to surgery. the client asks how the procedure is done. the nurse recognizes which description of this pr

1. the client will ingest a small amount of radioactive material and venipuncture will be performed to monitor blood levels.
2. the client will stand in front of a large machine that takes x - ray pictures of the liver.
3. the client will receive a radioactive tracer and a camera is passed back and forth over the body.
4. the clients skin will be lubricated with oil and ultrasound pictures will be taken.

Explanation:

• Option 1: Ingesting radioactive material and venipuncture for blood - level monitoring is not the typical process for a liver scan.
• Option 2: Standing in front of a large machine that takes x - ray pictures is more characteristic of a traditional x - ray (not a liver scan).
• Option 3: In a liver scan (nuclear medicine scan), the client receives a radioactive tracer (usually intravenously), and a gamma camera is passed back and forth over the body to detect the radioactive emissions from the tracer in the liver.
• Option 4: Lubricating the skin with oil and taking ultrasound pictures is the process for an ultrasound, not a liver scan.

Answer:

1. The client will receive a radioactive tracer and a camera is passed back and forth over the body.