An X-ray is a large camera that helps doctors understand more about what is happening on the inside of the body by taking pictures of the bones and organs. The camera never touches your child, it only takes pictures.
X-rays are painless and use a small, safe dose of radiation to help form pictures.
Women who are pregnant are not permitted to be in the room during the x-ray. Please bring another adult who can stay with your child during the scan. Any other children present will need to be supervised in the radiology waiting room.
To get the best results, it is important for your child to hold as still as possible during the X-ray.
Caregivers play an important part in helping the child remain still and calm. Below is a list of ways to prepare yourself for the X-ray and how to help your child.
From the waiting room, you will be brought to the X-ray room where you will see a large camera and a long table.
Your child may be asked to change into a gown and lay or sit in a certain position on the "picture table" depending on the kind of X-ray.
During the X-ray you will be asked to wear a lead vest to help protect you from radiation exposure during the scan. The staff will do everything they can to ensure that your child is exposed to the least amount of radiation possible.
The technologist will position your child and begin the exam, on average an X-ray can take 15 minutes, however, there are exams that will take longer.
Your doctor will contact you in 48 to 72 business hours.
At Nicklaus Children's, not only do we offer pediatric imaging excellence, we also offer convenience. Our Outpatient Center locations offer Walk-in X-Rays, no appointment is necessary*.
*All X-ray an imaging services require a doctor prescription.
Monday – Friday: 5:45 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.
Saturday: 5:45 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.
Sunday: 7:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.
As part of Nicklaus Children's Hospital's ongoing focus on enhancing service access for patient families, we now offer self-scheduling of X-rays. To self-schedule an X-ray, fill out the Central Scheduling request form, when selecting a procedure, choose Radiology/Digital X-ray. You will then be presented with a series of available dates/times to choose from. Complete the form, and submit your request.