Choosing the safest test for a child
Whenever it can answer the clinical question, we prefer tests that use no ionizing radiation — ultrasound and MRI — for children. Ultrasound uses sound waves and is often the first choice for young patients because it is quick, painless, and radiation-free.
When an X-ray or CT is the right test, it is because the information it provides is important for your child's care. Our radiologists and your child's provider weigh the benefit against the very small risk before any exam that uses radiation.
Child-sized radiation dose (ALARA for kids)
For any exam that uses radiation, we follow the ALARA principle — keeping dose As Low As Reasonably Achievable. Children are more sensitive to radiation than adults and have many years ahead of them, so dose reduction matters even more for young patients.
Our technologists adjust the X-ray and CT settings to a child's size and weight rather than using adult settings, scan only the area that needs imaging, and avoid repeat exposures. These pediatric protocols follow Image Gently guidance and deliver the lowest dose that still produces a useful image.
Keeping your child comfortable
A frightened child is harder to image, so comfort is part of safety. We explain each step in simple words, let children see and touch the equipment when possible, and keep the room calm. For MRI, we offer ear protection and, at many centers, music or video to help children hold still.
Holding still is the biggest challenge for younger children. We use the shortest protocols available and may use comfort techniques, swaddling for infants, or — for some MRI exams — coordinate sedation through your child's provider when a child cannot stay still safely.
How parents can help prepare a child
Talk to your child ahead of time in simple, reassuring language — describe the scanner as a big camera that takes pictures of the inside of the body and explain that it does not hurt. Bring a favorite comfort item, such as a stuffed animal or blanket, when it is safe for the exam.
Follow any preparation instructions on the appointment confirmation, such as fasting before sedation or arriving with a hungry, sleepy infant for certain studies. Telling us about your child's anxieties, sensory needs, or past experiences helps us plan the gentlest approach.
Staying with your child
For most exams a parent or guardian can stay in the room to comfort their child. For MRI, anyone entering the scanner room must first complete the same metal-free safety screening as a patient, and a pregnant parent may be asked to wait outside the room during an X-ray or CT.
If you are pregnant and accompanying your child, tell us in advance so we can arrange a safe way for you to support your child while avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure to you.
If this applies to you
- Tell us your child's age and weight when scheduling so we can prepare child-sized protocols.
- Explain the exam to your child beforehand in simple, reassuring words.
- Bring a comfort item — a favorite toy, blanket, or pacifier — when the exam allows it.
- Share any anxieties, sensory needs, or past difficult experiences so we can plan ahead.
- Tell us if you are pregnant and plan to stay in the room during an X-ray or CT.
Call us before your appointment if…
- Your child has significant anxiety or a sensory condition that may make holding still difficult.
- Your child may need sedation to complete the exam safely.
- Your child has an implant, medical device, or recent surgery before an MRI.
- You are pregnant and plan to accompany your child during an exam that uses radiation.
This page is general patient education and does not replace the medical advice of your physician. It describes how Precise Imaging operates today and is not a substitute for the specific instructions on your appointment confirmation. Always discuss your medical history with the provider who ordered your exam.
Frequently asked questions
Is imaging safe for my child?
Yes. Many pediatric exams — ultrasound and MRI — use no radiation at all. When an X-ray or CT is needed, we use child-sized settings to keep the dose as low as reasonably achievable, and the test is only done when the benefit outweighs the small risk.
Does my child get less radiation than an adult?
Yes. We adjust X-ray and CT settings to a child's size and weight rather than using adult settings, and we scan only the area that needs imaging. These pediatric protocols follow Image Gently guidance to deliver the lowest useful dose.
Can I stay in the room with my child?
For most exams, yes — a parent or guardian can stay to comfort their child. For MRI, you must first complete the same metal-free safety screening. A pregnant parent may be asked to step out during an X-ray or CT.
How can I prepare my child for a scan?
Explain the test in simple, reassuring words, bring a comfort item when allowed, and follow any instructions on the appointment confirmation. Telling us about your child's anxieties or sensory needs helps us plan the gentlest approach.
Will my child need to be sedated?
Most children complete imaging without sedation. For some MRI exams, a young child who cannot stay still safely may need sedation, which we coordinate through your child's provider. We always try comfort techniques and the shortest protocols first.
What if my child is scared of the scanner?
That is common, and comfort is part of safety. We explain each step simply, let children see the equipment when possible, keep the room calm, and offer music or video for MRI at many centers to help children relax and hold still.