Transparency - a patient-centric view on radiopharmaceutical extravasations.

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Medicine
• Radiopharmaceutical Administration
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Radiopharmaceuticals are typically administered intravenously for nuclear medicine procedures.
• Extravasation, the unintended injection of radioactive drugs into surrounding tissue, offers no patient benefit and carries risks.
• Current practices lack transparency regarding these events.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical need for transparency in radiopharmaceutical extravasations from a patient's perspective.
• To underscore the importance of transparency in improving patient care, radiation protection, and health equity.
• To address the complex relationship between the nuclear medicine community and regulatory bodies concerning extravasations.

Main Methods:

• This study is a conceptual analysis and patient advocacy perspective.
• It reviews current practices and patient needs regarding radiopharmaceutical administration.
• It examines the implications of a lack of transparency.

Main Results:

• Radiopharmaceutical extravasations are a significant concern in nuclear medicine.
• Patients desire and require transparency regarding extravasation events.
• Lack of transparency hinders improvements in care, safety, and equity.

Conclusions:

• Transparency is essential for enhancing patient care and radiation protection in nuclear medicine.
• Addressing extravasations requires open communication and accountability.
• Reforming the relationship with regulatory bodies is crucial for patient safety.