Preparing for a Pediatric X-Ray: Your Questions Answered
June 27, 2024
What follows is the third in a 3-part series on imaging procedures. The first part focused on mammograms, and the second part explained how to prepare for a CT scan.
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X-ray machines are like large cameras that take special photos of the inside of the body. Doctors use these photos to look at a patient’s bones and organs to help figure out if something is wrong.
What to expect before, during and after your visit
Before the X-ray
- You may be asked to help your child change into a medical gown.
- A technologist, the person who takes the X-ray, will take you and your child to the X-ray machine.
During the X-ray
- The technologist will help your child get into the right position for the camera. It is important that your child not move so that the X-rays are not blurry.
- The technologist will step outside the room so they can take your child’s X-ray.
- Taking your child’s X-ray only takes a few seconds.
- If you have any questions during your child’s X-ray exam, you can always ask the technologist.
Afterwards
- Once the technologist checks to see if the X-ray images are good and not blurry, you can go home.
- A radiologist who specializes in reading pediatric imaging studies will review the X-ray and send the report to your doctor.
- You’ll be able to see the X-ray results in your child’s Connect account. Your doctor will also receive a copy to review and discuss with you.
if you have any questions…
Weill Cornell Medicine’s radiologists are always available to speak with you and answer any questions you may have about your child’s X-rays.
To learn more about our screenings and radiology services, please visit here.