Smith, B: Diagnostic Imaging for Pharmacists

Most schools of pharmacy do not cover the area of diagnostic imaging to any appreciable extent in the curriculum, so very few practicing pharmacists have a high level of comfort when dealing with issues relating to diagnostic imaging. Patients undergoing diagnostic imaging procedures may receive a variety of pharmaceutical interventional agents as part of the imaging procedure. Historically these pharmaceutical agents have been overseen by the radiology department rather than the pharmacy department. With recent changes in regulatory oversight of medication management and with increased emphasis by accreditation bodies, pharmacists are finding themselves in need of a better understanding of the policies, procedures, and use of pharmacologic agents in the diagnostic imaging arena. "Diagnostic Imaging for Pharmacists" is the only diagnostic imaging reference written specifically for pharmacists. This easy-to-use resource will provide pharmacists and student pharmacists with a basic understanding of diagnostic imaging and the pharmaceuticals used as a part of the imaging process. It focuses on the pharmaceutical agents used in diagnostic imaging procedures. It includes basic information on each type of imaging modality - X-ray, MRI, Ultrasound, and Nuclear Medicine. It covers regulatory oversight in the diagnostic imaging area. It offers a basic review of ionizing radiation, and review of radiation safety procedures.