Know my radiotracer: Nuclear medicine prototype flash cards for physicians

Learning Objectives The purpose of this exhibit is: 1. Introduce new learning methodology for in-training physicians, by creating flash cards detailing normal and abnormal radiotracer distribution. 2. Help the physician to recall essential facts for each radiotracer. 3. Develop a study aid that in-training physicians may utilize for examinations. 4. Assist nuclear radiology physicians in everyday practice.

Radioactive tracers possess unique characteristics that take advantage of physiological pathways in the body. Each radiotracer has a specific distribution which may result in an identifiable imaging characteristic. The same radiotracer can be tailored for different clinical indications by changing the route of administration and sequence of imaging. Understanding the mechanism, distribution and clearance of radiotracers may be challenging. Specially designed educational material is useful in learning key facts about each radiotracer. Flash cards were created using 5 x 7 inch laminated paper. The front of the card includes basic radiotracer information: production, decay path and energy emitted, study protocol, dose, mechanism of action, distribution and clearance. The back of the card displays normal and/or abnormal tracer distribution and clearance graphically reproduced on an outline of the human body using multiple colors. The cards have been employed for self-teaching and for group learning by nuclear medicine residents. In the future, the flash cards will be converted to an electronic format to facilitate distribution. Examples of these cards will be utilized for this exhibit. After viewing this presentation, viewers will have a better understanding of each of the radiotracers presented. This self teaching and quizzing method should enhance knowledge and retention of information in a non-stressful manner. Once the project has been completed we will then study its value in resident education via a survey tool.