kiddi
An X-ray is usually a quick and simple test. Ultrasound is a little different. It builds a picture using sound waves, not ionising radiation. Doctors use both to look inside a child’s body: X-rays for things like bones and lungs, ultrasound for organs such as the kidneys and liver.
None of that stops the questions, of course. And if a parent is anxious, kids usually notice. So if you’re in Western Sydney and your child has a children’s X-ray or ultrasound booked, it helps to know what happens before, during and after the appointment.
Understanding Your Child’s Imaging Referral
Most imaging starts with a referral (sometimes called a request). It comes from a GP, specialist or other eligible health professional, and it tells the imaging team which examination your child needs.
The two tests do different jobs. X-rays are especially good for bones and the lungs. They can also help find small objects a child may have swallowed or inhaled, a coin or a bead, say. Ultrasound involves no ionising radiation, and your child won’t hear or feel the sound waves.
Preparation varies from test to test. Some instructions also change depending on how old your child is, so contact the imaging practice ahead of time and check you’ve got the right ones. And remember to bring the referral on the day.
Choosing a Local Imaging Clinic in Western Sydney
You don’t have to go to the practice named on the form. Under Medicare rules, you can choose which imaging practice to use, so pick one that suits your family.
Start with the obvious question: does the clinic offer the scan on your child’s referral? After that, it’s the practical stuff. Opening hours. Parking. Accessibility.
For families in and around Wetherill Park, Lumus Imaging Wetherill Park is one local option offering X-ray and ultrasound services. Wherever you book, a quick phone call beforehand is worthwhile. You can confirm the scan can be done for your child’s age and ask about anything that’s worrying you.
Preparing Your Child for an X-Ray
Most X-rays need no special preparation. That part’s easy.
Metal can affect the image, though. Jewellery and other metal objects may need to come off, and your child might need to remove clothing from the area being examined or pop on a gown. Dressing them with that in mind can save time.
A radiographer (someone trained specifically to take X-ray images) will usually position your child and line up the equipment. Then it’s quick. Each image takes less than a second, although your child may need to keep still, or briefly hold their breath, for a few seconds so the picture doesn’t blur. The radiographer checks the images before you go.
All up, the examination is usually done within minutes. It takes a bit longer if more than one area needs imaging.
X-rays do use ionising radiation. That’s why they should only be used when there’s a potential benefit to your child, like helping to diagnose a condition or monitor treatment. There are no immediate side effects, and unless there’s a medical reason not to, your child can generally head back to school or childcare afterwards.
Preparing Your Child for an Ultrasound
A sonographer spreads gel on your child’s skin, then moves a small handheld probe over the area. It isn’t usually painful. A tender spot might feel uncomfortable under the pressure, though. Timing varies with your child’s age, how settled they are and the reason for the scan.
What about preparation? That depends on what’s being scanned.
For kidney and bladder scans, imaging usually starts with a full bladder, so your child may need to drink water before the appointment. If it isn’t full enough, they may be asked to drink more before the scan can be finished.
Abdominal scans (gallbladder scans included) often need a period of fasting, because food and air in the stomach and bowel make the images harder to read. The fasting time depends on your child’s age.
Ask the imaging practice for instructions that suit your child’s age and scan type. If fasting is on the cards, an early appointment can help, since your child spends less time awake without food. Does your child take regular medication? Check with your doctor or the clinic about managing it around the scan.
Helping Your Child Feel Calm on the Day
If your child is old enough to follow what’s happening, talk the scan through before you go. It can ease their anxiety. On the day, a little distraction can help in an unfamiliar place:
- a favourite toy, book, music or movie
- chatting about a favourite place during the test
- slow, deep breaths to “blow away” worried feelings
Keep an eye on your own nerves too. If you’re anxious, your child will usually notice. And if staying calm feels hard, it may be better for another trusted adult to stay with them during the test.
With X-rays, a parent or carer can usually stay, which helps reassure your child and keep them still. You may be asked to wear a protective apron. If you’re pregnant or think you might be, tell the radiographer first. You shouldn’t hold your child during an X-ray. With ultrasounds, ask the clinic whether you can stay in the room.
After the Scan: Getting the Results
After the scan, a radiologist (a doctor who specialises in interpreting medical images) reviews it and sends a written report to your referring doctor. They’ll explain what the findings mean for your child. So book a follow-up appointment with them. That’s where you’ll go through the results together and talk about what comes next.
