Description
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in interstitial lung disease, acute pulmonary embolism (PE), and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH).
Purpose
The MRI aims to provide a more detailed assessment of lung structures and their abnormalities. It helps to stage bronchogenic carcinoma by assessing chest wall invasion and evaluating inflammatory activity in various lung diseases.
Nursing Responsibilities
Nurses are crucial in ensuring proper patient preparation for an MRI, employing technical expertise and precision to optimize the procedure's effectiveness. Patients should be instructed to remove all metal items, such as hearing aids, hair clips, and medication patches with metallic foil components. The nurse should assess for the presence of implanted metal devices, such as aneurysm clips or a cardiac implantable electronic device. Nurses should assess tattoos for metallic ink, inform patients of potential MRI-related burns, and apply cold packs as precautions if necessary to ensure safety during the procedure. Patients should be informed that they must lie flat and remain still for between 30 and 90 minutes while the table they are on moves into a large tubular magnet.
Ventilation Perfusion Scan
Ventilation Perfusion Scans (V/Q scans) involve injecting a radioactive agent into the peripheral vein and obtaining a chest scan to detect radiation. The isotope particles pass through the heart and distribute proportionally to regional blood flow into the lungs. V/Q scans allow for tracing and measuring blood perfusion through the lungs. The procedure assesses normal lung functioning, pulmonary vascular supply, and gas exchange.
Purpose
The V/Q scan measures the integrity of the pulmonary vessels relative to blood flow and evaluates blood flow abnormalities, as seen in PE. It is also used to diagnose bronchitis, asthma, inflammatory fibrosis, pneumonia, emphysema, and lung cancer.
Nursing Responsibilities
For V/Q scans, the nursing responsibilities include educating the patient about what will happen during the procedure. Intravenous access is required, and a chest x-ray should be performed before the scan. Post-procedure, the nurse should encourage fluid intake to facilitate the elimination of radioisotopes in the urine.
MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scans play a significant role in diagnosing and managing lung diseases. Nurses are critical in preparing patients for these procedures and providing post-procedure care.
