When your child has a CT scan, they are brought to the room and placed on a table. Most often children lie on their backs, but scans can be done in any position.
A child may go in the machine headfirst or feet first, depending on the body part being pictured. We use “seatbelts” to keep your child secure.
Depending on the CT type, your child may have to hold their breath. The technologist will explain the process, so your child is not surprised and they may do a “practice run” with your child before any scanning. Usually, two sets of pictures are taken with the CT table moving through the scanner each time.
If the CT procedure requires contrast in the veins, an IV will be needed. An IV is started by the nursing staff or the vascular access team. First, to numb the skin, we place a numbing agent into the skin without a needle. This will be done in the nursing room before your child enters the CT room. If your child has central venous access (such as a PICC line or medi-port/Port-a-cath), the technologist will check to make sure it is safe to use for power injection.
If your child needs to drink oral contrast, you may bring any non-dairy or non-carbonated drink like juice or lemonade.
Some CT scans are as short as five seconds and some are longer depending on the body part being scanned. Since images can be looked at right away, the radiologist may check the images before your child is taken off the bed. During this time, it is important your child stays still in case more scans are needed.