Most of the time nodules are checked for growth using a CT scan. If you're having a PET scan they're looking for more than just growth. Talk with your doc and ask questions!

I had 2 PET scans done last year to check for malinoma spot on right lung . Its the same as @A MyCOPDTeam Member states exactly. They were able to remove spot via camera as it was behind rib cage. This year i am having cat scans to check for any nodules or spots to keep on top of this.

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A MyCOPDT...

If you are asking about a CT scan (cat scan), that is where they check for new nodules or the growth of existing ones. That is usually done with contrast.
If you are asking about a PET scan (pet scan), that is different, that is where they inject a radioactive isotope, and then do a scan. They are looking for possible cancers. The isotope attaches itself to cancerous cells and causes them to glow. It is not harmful, nor painful, but the entire process takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
I get CT scan once a year now, but I have had 2 PET scans in the past.

I have had two lately to check on the small cell lung cancer I have. It is no big deal. They put a dye of some kind in you and then you just lay there. Takes about 15 minutes

I've had several of them. They saw nodules in my lungs in a x-ray a bunch of them. First I had a C.T. of my whole body to see if their was any other signs of cancer. ( found none ) Then they did one of just my lungs and came to the conclusion they where scar tissue from pneumonia. Plus a couple more since. Don't worry just like a x-ray.