FAQ & Exam Prep

Know what to expect before your imaging appointment.

Use this page as a general preparation guide for PET scan, Bone Scan, CT, and MRI appointments. If your doctor or our staff gave you specific instructions, please follow those instructions first.

PET Scan Prep

Includes PET/CT and PSMA-related appointments.

Before your visit

  • Follow any fasting instructions given when scheduling.
  • Drink water unless you were told to restrict fluids.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise before the scan if instructed.
  • Tell us if you are diabetic, pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking new medication.

Bring with you

  • Photo ID, insurance card, and imaging order.
  • Prior imaging reports or discs if available.
  • Your completed PET/CT questionnaire from the Forms page.

Bone Scan Prep

Nuclear medicine imaging for skeletal evaluation.

Before your visit

  • You may usually eat and take routine medications unless told otherwise.
  • Drink water before and after your appointment if allowed.
  • Plan for the exam to happen in stages, because imaging may occur after tracer circulation.
  • Tell us if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or recently had nuclear medicine imaging.

Bring with you

  • Photo ID, insurance card, and physician order.
  • Relevant prior X-rays, CT, MRI, PET, or Bone Scan records.
  • Your completed Bone Scan questionnaire.

CT Prep

Preparation depends on whether contrast is required.

Before your visit

  • Ask whether your exam is with contrast, without contrast, or both.
  • Follow fasting instructions if contrast is planned.
  • Tell us about allergies to iodine or contrast dye.
  • Tell us if you have kidney disease, diabetes, or take metformin.

Bring with you

  • Photo ID, insurance card, and physician order.
  • Recent lab results if requested for contrast safety.
  • Your completed CT questionnaire from the Forms page.

MRI Prep

Safety screening is important before every MRI.

Before your visit

  • Tell us if you have a pacemaker, implant, aneurysm clip, stimulator, metal fragments, or surgical hardware.
  • Wear comfortable clothing without metal when possible.
  • Remove jewelry, watches, hearing aids, cards, and metal accessories before the scan.
  • Tell us if you are claustrophobic, pregnant, or need extra assistance.

Bring with you

  • Photo ID, insurance card, and physician order.
  • Implant or device cards, if applicable.
  • Your completed MRI questionnaire from the Forms page.

Common Questions

Frequently asked questions

How early should I arrive?

Please arrive early enough to complete check-in and safety paperwork. If you have forms completed ahead of time, check-in is usually faster.

What should I bring?

Bring your photo ID, insurance card, physician order, completed forms, medication list, and any relevant prior imaging records.

Can I eat before my exam?

It depends on the exam and whether contrast or a tracer is used. Please follow the instructions given when scheduling, or call us if you are unsure.

What if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Please tell our staff before your appointment. Some imaging exams may need special review, additional precautions, or rescheduling.

How do I get directions?

Use the Directions button on this page, call us at (714) 957-0317, or visit us at 17150 Euclid Street, Suite 101, Fountain Valley, CA 92708.

Preparation can vary by exam and medical history. If you have diabetes, kidney disease, allergies, implants, pregnancy concerns, or questions about fasting, please call (714) 957-0317 before your appointment.
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