Learning more about common medical imaging tests

If your child is scheduled for an x-ray, CT scan, MRI, ultrasound or other test, please take a moment to review the video clips listed below. Viewing a video of the test ahead of time will help you and your child feel more comfortable.

These videos have been developed with kids in mind and have been approved by the Dayton Children's KidsSpeak Youth Advisory Council--a group of children and teens who help us make sure that what we do is beneficial to kids and families.

Videos and preparation instructions 

Note: Preparation instructions should be discussed with your child's doctor. Do not follow these instructions on your own. Your child's doctor will let you know how he or she wants your child to prepare for the upcoming test or procedure.

• X-ray
  • Preparation instructions - outpatient 
• CT scan
  • Preparation instructions - outpatient 
• Ultrasound
  • Preparation instructions - outpatient 
• MRI - Dayton Children's is now using a video and audio system with MRIs to help kids relax. Read more about this service.
  • Preparation instructions - outpatient 
• Nuclear medicine
  • Preparation instructions - outpatient 
• Outpatient testing centers in Beavercreek and Springboro - See lab tests, an x-ray, EKG and ultrasound
• Slide show showing what images for CT, x-ray and other tests look like.

About Dayton Children's medical imaging department

The department of medical imaging (radiology/nuclear medicine) at The Children's Medical Center of Dayton offers a full range of diagnostic imaging for pediatric patients. The pediatric radiologists are assisted by technologists and staff trained in working with infants, children and teenagers. Our personnel are highly skilled in sedating infants and young children. The medical imaging department has state-of-the-art equipment designed to perform diagnostic examinations with a minimum of radiation exposure to patients. An onsite MRI is available, offering the highest quality images with child-friendly features. In most cases, a parent can be with their child while he or she is being scanned and children are encouraged to bring their own music or stories to be played on the specially designed sound system. Appointments are available to meet most family's needs.