How-Tow Prepare For an X-Ray Exam

We all want our stay in the hospitalĀ to beĀ as quick andĀ unobtrusive as possible so that we canĀ carryĀ on with ourĀ daily routines.Ā Here are some recommendations in order to have a safe, accurate and fastĀ radiolography/fluoscopyĀ exam.
For general x-ray exams,Ā clothingĀ withoutĀ snaps, buttons,Ā orĀ zippers will increase the possibility of not having to remove clothing. Some logosĀ orĀ t-shirt images can show up on our x-rays now as well.Ā To avoid having to undress, wear somethingĀ likeĀ aĀ plainĀ t-shirt and knit pants.

Image: X-ray artifacts. The lettering āpeaceā can be seen above, as well as the metal rings on the belt.
ForĀ fluoroscopyĀ exams,Ā we willĀ oftenĀ haveĀ the childĀ dress inĀ gownsĀ so weĀ do notĀ get contrast on clothing, which can stainĀ it. But again, lack of snaps, zippers,Ā andĀ buttons will increase the likelihood of being able to stay dressed even if we put a gown over clothing.
RegardingĀ theĀ lengthĀ ofĀ exams, most general x-ray exams take less than 30 minutes (many taking closer toĀ 10 minutes) plus time for registration.Ā The length of fluoroscopyĀ examsĀ varies.Ā The information that is sent by theĀ CallĀ Center willĀ specify upĀ to an hour for most ofĀ these exams. The exceptions are a small bowel follow through,Ā which can take several hours depending on how long it takes the contrast to move through the bowel.Ā An enema can sometimes take slightly longer than an hour depending on how long it takes the patient to evacuate the contrast at the end of the exam.
Susan Smith, Radiology Manager, author; Glenn MiƱano, BFA, editor; Meredith Towbin, copy editor
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