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Bone Density Test Prep Checklist
What to settle before a DEXA scan, what happens on the table, and what to ask afterward.
A real, editable checklist below — tick, tap a line to rewrite, drag to reorder.
Tick the circles, tap any line to change it, drag the dots to reorder.
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The order of a bone density test is short: confirm you need one, prepare on the day, lie still for the scan, then review your scores with your doctor. St. Luke's puts the scan at 10 to 20 minutes; Hackensack Meridian says about 15. The day-of prep is mostly clothing and one supplement rule. This list covers getting ready and what to expect. It explains how scores are reported but leaves what they mean for you, and any treatment, to your doctor.
Why these items are on the list
- Ask your doctor if you need one. Screening is generally suggested for post-menopausal women, men over 70 and people with certain risk factors.
- Note past fractures and medications. A history of fragility fractures, or medicines such as corticosteroids, can be reasons for screening.
- Share family history of osteoporosis. A family history of osteoporosis is another reason doctors may suggest a scan.
- Skip calcium supplements that day. St. Luke's advises avoiding them on the day of the exam.
- Wear clothing without metal. Skip zippers, buttons and buckles. Comfortable clothing is fine.
- Tell your doctor about pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before the scan.
- Mention recent contrast imaging. Tell your doctor if you recently had another imaging test using contrast material.
- Allow 10 to 20 minutes (St. Luke's). St. Luke's quotes 10 to 20 minutes, Hackensack Meridian about 15; generally no other preparation is needed.
- Lie on your back. You rest on a padded table while a scanner passes over your hips and lower spine.
- Stay still during scanning. You may be asked to hold your breath for several seconds at a time.
- Ask about radiation dose. The dose is described as very small; raise any concern with your doctor first.
- Ask when results will arrive. Reports from the radiologist go to your physician, so ask how you will hear.
- Learn how T-scores read. Hackensack Meridian scores against a healthy young adult: 0 baseline, -1 to 0 healthy, -2.5 to -1 low bone mass.
- Know what a Z-score compares. It compares your bone density with others of the same age, ethnicity and gender.
- Ask what your result means. Hackensack Meridian classes a T-score below -2.5 as osteoporosis; your doctor explains next steps.
Tick the items in the order they happen, and keep your questions for the doctor open on your phone so they are to hand at the appointment.
When to use it
Use it when your doctor has recommended a bone density test, in the days before the appointment.