Each type of x-ray procedure has its own specific preparation, depending on the area of the body that needs to be examined. Here are a few basic things to remember when having an x-ray taken—your doctor or x-ray technician will also remind you of these:

• If you are a woman, tell your doctor if you might be pregnant. The doctor will also likely ask about your last menstrual period to assure that it is safe to take the radiographs.

• Remove any clothing over the part of the body to be x-rayed. If necessary, you will be given a gown or shorts to make sure you are comfortable.

• Remove all jewelry from the body part to be x-rayed. The metal in the jewelry may obscure the image.

Our x-ray machine in action.
Depending on the examined body area, you may be sitting near a table in the radiography suite or standing near a film-holding device. The doctor or technician will measure the body part and place it into a position that will provide the best image. He or she then will aim the x-ray tube at the proper body region and tell you what position to hold and how to breathe.

When the x-ray machine is activated, you may hear some whirring and beeps, which are a normal part of the procedure. Unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, you should remain perfectly still. If your movements distort the image, the x-ray may need to be retaken. Usually, at least two views of a body part are taken at different angles. In some cases, more views may be necessary. Your doctor will perform only the minimum number of views that are necessary.

As with other medical procedures, x-rays are safe when used with care. Your doctor and x-ray technician have been trained to use the minimum amount of radiation necessary to obtain the needed results. The amount of radiation used in most examinations is very small and the benefits greatly outweigh the risk of harm.