Prepare for Imaging

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 will work with your child to help them understand and normalize the imaging scan being done. These professionals offer positive coping strategies using medical play, developmentally appropriate language, and safe exploration of medical equipment to help 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
• If your child is going to be asleep for the exam: Let your child know you will be with them during the “getting ready” and “waking up” parts, and that our staff will keep them safe during the “falling asleep” time
• If your child is remaining awake for the exam: Let your child know that you will be with them until the test is done
• 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
• If your child is falling asleep for the exam: “Let your child know that it is your job to keep them safe during the preparation and waking up parts of the test, and that the doctors and nurses will keep them safe while they go to fall asleep and complete their test
• If your child is remaining awake for the exam: Let your child know that you will be with them until the test is done
• Bring a favorite book, toy, game or CD for your child
• Depending on the test, bring a snack for after the exam
• If your child is anxious about their imaging or falling asleep, please reach out to our child life team to see what supports are available.