(8) Explain to the patient events which will occur after the
electroencephalogram procedure.
(a) Patient will return to his/her room.
(b) Physician will report the results of the electroencephalogram to the
patient when they are available.
2-20. BRAIN SCAN
a. Brain scanning is the use of a specialized camera to provide images of the
brain after an I.V. injection of a radionucleotide. Normally, the radionucleotide cannot
permeate the blood-brain barriers, but if pathologic changes have destroyed the barrier,
the radionucleotide may concentrate in the abnormal area.
b. Diagnostic uses:
(1)
To detect an intracranial mass or vascular lesion.
(2)
To locate areas of ischemia, cerebral infarction, or hemorrhage.
(3) To evaluate the course of certain lesions postoperatively and during
chemotherapy.
c. Nursing implications.
(1) Review the patient's clinical record to determine the reason (purpose) for
the specific patient's scheduled brain scanning procedure and what the patient has
been told about the procedure.
(2)
Approach and identify the patient.
(3) Interview the patient to determine his/her knowledge of the purpose of
the brain scanning procedure.
(4) As indicated, explain to the patient the specific purpose of the brain
scan. Explain purpose in a manner consistent with that offered by the physician to
avoid confusing the patient.
(5)
Explain to the patient events that will occur prior to the brain scanning
procedure.
(a) Patient will not have to restrict food or fluids before test.
(b) Patient will be asked to empty his/her bladder prior to the
procedure.
MD0919
2-28