CT Prep | allianceforkids

So You're About to Get a CT Scan...

What is a CT scan?

CT stands for Computed Tomography

These scans take pictures of different parts of your body.

The pictures will show your bones and your tissues.

Why are CT Scans important?

The doctors want to take pictures of your (body part) to see what is making you feel bad.

What happens during a CT scan?

You will go to CT scan in a wheelchair or on a bed with wheels.
When you get to the room where your pictures will be taken, the nurse will help move you to the bed that slides in and out of the CT camera.
The camera looks like a big doughnut with a hole in the middle. The bed will slide into the hole when it is time for your pictures.
The bed sometimes has a cloth seatbelt, just like in a car, to keep you safe.
Having your pictures taken will not hurt and nothing will touch you.
A CT scan takes about 5-15 minutes. You may hear a soft humming sound when the camera is working.
You may need to drink some special medicine called contrast. This medicine helps your doctor see the pictures of your body better that were checked with the camera.
The special medicine or contrast may also be given through your IV.
A parent may also be present during the CT scan, but will need to wear a lead apron.
The radiology technologist taking the pictures will be able to see you and talk to you during the procedure.

What is my job during a CT scan?

It is your very important job to be still during your CT scan.

What helps during my CT scan?