A computerized method for pediatric radiopharmaceutical dose tracking and QA of prescribed versus administered activity

Objectives A computerized system to monitor prescribed and administered radiopharmaceutical doses in pediatric patients to ensure that doses are kept within acceptable limits was developed.

Methods All administered doses are entered on a data repository via an intuitive web based user interface. This method is integrated in the technologist’s routine workflow. Each patient is weighed and the tracer dose is calculated individually. The syringe with the dose is measured in the dose calibrator before and after (with any associated tubing) the tracer is administered to the patient. Administered doses are compared to the doses prescribed in our radiopharmaceutical formulary, which indicates minimum, maximum and dose per kilogram of body weight. In addition, information about patient’s weight, radiopharmaceutical, other pharmaceuticals, dose(s) administered, route and time of administration and administering staff are recorded.

Results Reports are regularly produced for every radiopharmaceutical doses and reviewed by our QC program to ensure that there are no deviations of administered versus prescribed doses beyond +/- 10%. Any deviations of the prescribed dose range are identified and the reasons for the deviation are documented and easily retrievable. Radiopharmaceutical information is immediately viewable to the physicians at the time of reporting. This method has been in use for over 3 years with optimal results. This approach also provides easy and immediate access to radiopharmaceutical data to reporting physicians.

Conclusions This approach provides an integrated, easy and intuitive way to monitor and assure that radiopharmaceutical administered doses in pediatric patients are maintained within the prescribed range.