Medical imaging (radiology)

Prepare for your child's medical imaging procedure

These are general suggestions. More information may be available by specific procedure.

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
Plan to have a parent and/or legal guardian accompany your child to the visit.
Get directions and parking information for the main hospital and outpatient centers.
Get more information about our billing and payment policy.

Any medication your child is taking, as well as the name and number of your pharmacy.
Your child's medical records, lab results, medical imaging CDs and any other physician notes.
Any referrals your insurance requires before seeing a pediatric specialist or for testing.
Your insurance card and co-payment, which is collected at appointment check-in.

A parent's presence (for children not being sedated or having general anesthesia) provides the best comfort. You can also bring your child's favorite blanket, boy or toy.
Ask for a Child Life Specialist, a trained pediatric professional who uses distraction techniques, such as the use of light balls and sticks, bubbles, DVD players, and music, to help prepare and calm your child. Learn more about how Child Life Specialists can help.
For infants, dress in a two-piece outfit, not a "onesy."
For all children, if possible, avoid clothing with metal (zippers, snaps, etc.).
Know "NPO" means "nothing by mouth." This varies by exam, so we will be sure to share specifics with you before your visit.

For babies and young children, bring a bottle/pacifier, special blanket toy and stroller.
For older children, bring a special toy or book.
For you, it is helpful to have another caregiver for your child's siblings.

Infants

Toddlers and preschool-age children

On the day of, or right before the test, explain "you will have some pictures taken so the doctors can help you feel better."
Use simple words and be honest.
Let your child know you will stay until they fall asleep.
Bring a favorite book, toy, or blanket and snack for after the test.

School-age children

School-age children have good imaginations and may frighten themselves by imagining something much worse than the actual test.
On the day of, or right before the test, explain "you will have some pictures taken of your body so the doctors can help you feel better."
Use simple words and be honest.
Let your child know that you will stay during the test.
Bring a favorite book, toy, game and CD for your child to listen to during the ultrasound.
Depending on the test, bring a snack for after the exam.