Having an X-Ray (8-16 years)
An x-ray machine takes a picture of the bones inside of your body by using radiation.
What is radiation?
Radiation is energy that comes from a source and travels through space at the speed of light. Most of the radiation created in space is filtered by the earth’s atmosphere to protect us. Natural radiation comes from space and is called cosmic radiation and can be found in things such as sunlight (UV rays).
Low doses of background radiation can also come from mobile phones and flying on airplanes.
The Radiographer that you will meet will ensure that you are given the smallest amount of radiation possible in order to find out if there is anything wrong.
Preparing for the x-ray
You may need to get changed out of your clothing if they have metal bits, like a zip. We will give you a hospital gown to wear and a private changing room to get ready in. Your parent/guardian/ accompanying adult can stay with you inside the scan room, during your scan, if you want. They will need to put on a special apron or stand with the Radiographer behind the screen.
About the x-ray
Depending on the area being x-rayed you may be asked to stand-up, sit down or lie-down.
Once you are positioned, the Radiographer will shine a light, and then will ask you to keep very still (movement will cause blurry pictures).
You will then hear a bleeping noise whilst the x-rays are being taken. The x-ray will only take a few seconds.
Information for Parents, Carers, Guardians and Accompanying Adults
X-rays are produced by giving a very small dose of x-rays. The images help the referrers to diagnose your child’s problem to give the right treatment. The radiographer will position you child exactly for each picture. It is very important they do not move once positioned, otherwise, the picture may be blurred and need to be repeated. The best way you can help is to be relaxed and calm, to talk to your child and help hold them still if required. It is a good idea to let them bring a favourite toy, book, or comforter to keep them as happy as possible.
The x-ray will take seconds for the images to be taken. You can stay with you child whilst they have the x-ray, as long as you wear a lead apron, alternatively, you can stand behind the screen with the radiographer.
Your clinician will have assessed whether this is the best type of scan in order for them to get the images and information that they need to help with their care, and they have decided that the benefit of having this done is far greater than any possible risks of the small amount of radiation involved. Please be reassured that the radiographers will always use the smallest amount of radiation possible to obtain the required images.
Due to safeguarding considerations, it is not possible for our staff to provide childcare arrangements. We recommend that if you need to bring children with you that another responsible adult is available to take care of them, otherwise this may result in the examination being postponed.
Images will be available for your Consultant to view straight after the examination.
More information
For more information regarding radiation doses please review the www.gov.uk website.
If you have any more questions or worries, please contact the department: 0121 812 3370 /