What is an x-ray?
An x-ray is a diagnostic procedure that uses radiation and computer software to take pictures of the insides of the person’s body. The x-ray machine includes a board which the body part being looked at is placed on and then a large camera which is positioned over the body part. Depending on which body part is being x-rayed, your child will be asked to either stand up, sit down on a chair or lie down on a bed.
Different numbers of x-rays in various positions are required, depending on which body part is being looked at. Each x-ray only takes 1-2 minutes, with an average of two images required. It is important to get the body parts in the correct position for accurate interpretation, so the radiographers may need to help your child into the correct position.
Different imaging procedures are used for different diagnoses – some are better than others for specific questions. An x-ray provides different information of the inside of the body compared to other imaging procedures such as ultrasound. The doctor who has asked for this x-ray will have assessed the risks and benefits of this investigation before deciding to go ahead.
An x-ray does involve exposure to radiation, however this is kept as low as possible by the radiographer who has had specialist training.
Please ensure any relevant information is read, such as opening times and locations for the x-ray.
If the adult bringing the patient is pregnant, or there is a chance they are, they will not be allowed to remain in the room during the x-ray. This is because the radiation can cause harm to the pregnancy. The adult will however be able to stand behind the lead screen inside the room, if deemed appropriate by the radiographer.
If your child is 12 years old or older, they may be asked to confirm if they are pregnant, or could be pregnant. This is regardless of if your child is male or female, due to radiation laws. If you have any concerns or issues regarding this, please contact us.
The adult bringing the child for the scan should have ‘parental responsibility’ for them. This refers to the individual who has the legal right to make decisions for the child.
Please refer to your appointment letter for information on when and where to attend if you have been provided with one.
Prior to the x-ray, you (or your child if able to) will be asked to confirm some basic details to confirm their identity. You will be able to remain in the room during the x-ray if necessary to support your child, however if your child is able stay on their own in the room (either with yourself behind the lead screen, or under supervision from the Radiographer) then this is better for you.
If you are staying in the room during the x-ray, you will be asked to confirm you are not pregnant (again regardless of your gender identity), and you will also need to wear a lead gown.
Your child will be asked to either stand up, sit down or lie down and then the radiographer will put the body part being looked at in the correct position for the x-ray. The radiographer will be able to see and hear your child at all times.
The x-ray machine makes a small whirring noise when it starts, and your child may be asked to hold their breath for a few seconds.
As soon as all the x-rays are complete, and the images have been checked as good quality, your child will be advised to move from their current position and advised on next steps. This will either be to go immediately home or to see the clinician, depending on which pathway they are on.
If your child is visiting as an outpatient with no further appointments on the same day, once you and your child are advised you are able to leave, you can return to normal routine. A radiologist (specialist radiology doctor) will review the images within a designated time-frame based on the urgency of the x-ray request. They will then send a report to the referring doctor who will contact you to discuss the result.
If your child is having the scan as an inpatient, via A&E or via the fracture clinic, you will go back to the department you were seen in and the doctors will make a decision on the next step.
Any questions?
Please contact our radiology department bookings team if you have any questions or need to rebook the appointment.