Nuclear Cardiology: Nuclear Cardiology:

Chapter 1 / Getting Started 11Getting StartedWhether planning a new nuclear cardiology imaging facility,or renovating an existing laboratory, there are many factorsto be considered and many decisions to be made. Thischapter will highlight and discuss many of these practicaldecisions.The following issues will be considered:• Physical space• Equipment• Radiopharmacy• Additional miscellaneous supplies• Staffing• Radiation safety officer (RSO)PHYSICAL SPACEThe overall physical space and organization of a nuclear cardiologyimaging facility must be such that patient confidentiality is protected incompliance with HIPAA regulations (see, www.hipaadvisory.com).• Imaging RoomsImaging rooms should be spacious enough to accommodate gammacamera systems. Currently a typical imaging room should be 14 × 14 ftat the minimum. (Fig. 1-1.) Cameras of different vendors differ in spacerequirements. It is important to know the footprint of the imaging systemselected and that all equipment can be accommodated in the availablespace. “Hybrid” systems (e.g., SPECT-CT, PET-CT) require morespace. If CT is used, lead shielding of the walls may be necessary.• Stress Rooms—Stress rooms must be close to the imaging rooms.A typical stress room requires at a minimum 8 × 8 ft (2.5 × 2.5 m).(Fig. 1-2.)From: Contemporary Cardiology: Nuclear Cardiology, The BasicsF. J. Th. Wackers, W. Bruni, and B. L. Zaret © Humana Press Inc., Totowa, NJ1