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Lurie Children's Specialties & ConditionsMedical ImagingPreparing for Your Visit Prepare for Imaging

Prepare for Imaging

These are general guidelines. More specific information may be available by procedure. We also offer general guidelines to prepare for sedation.

Before the Visit

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time, leaving plenty of time for parking and getting to your appointment location. Please have a parent and/or legal guardian accompany your child.

"NPO" means "nothing by mouth." This varies by exam, so we will be sure to share specifics with you before your visit.

Bring With You

  • Any medication your child is taking, as well as the name and number of your pharmacy
  • Your child's medical records, lab results, medical imaging CDs and any other physician notes
  • Any referrals your insurance requires before seeing a pediatric specialist or for testing
  • Your insurance card and co-payment, which is collected at appointment check-in

How to Prepare & Talk to Your Child

A parent's presence (for children not being sedated or having general anesthesia) provides the best comfort, but bringing your child's favorite blanket, book or toy may also be helpful. Avoid dressing your child in clothing with metal (zippers, snaps, etc.).

Ask for a child life specialist, a trained pediatric professional who uses distraction techniques, such as the use of light balls and sticks, bubbles, DVD players and music, to help prepare and calm your child.

It may be helpful to have another caregiver on-hand for your child's siblings.

Infan​ts

  • Comfort your baby with your presence and voice
  • Depending on the test, bring a bottle of juice or formula for after the exam
  • Dress in a two-piece outfit, not a "onesie"
  • Also bring a bottle/pacifier, special blanket toy and stroller

Toddlers & Preschool-Age C​hildren

On the day of, or right before the test, explain "you will have some pictures taken so the doctors can help you feel better."

  • Use simple words and be honest
  • Let your child know you will stay until they fall asleep
  • Bring a favorite book, toy, or blanket and snack for after the test

School-Age Ch​ildren

School-age children have good imaginations and may frighten themselves by imagining something much worse than the actual test. On the day of, or right before the test, explain "you will have some pictures taken of your body so the doctors can help you feel better."

  • Use simple words and be honest.
  • Let your child know that you will stay during the test.
  • Bring a favorite book, toy, game or CD for your child.
  • Depending on the test, bring a snack for after the exam.