Having a computerized tomography CT scan (1433)

Key points below


Your child’s CT scan is scheduled for (date) ___________ at (time)_______________ in the Imaging (Radiology) Department on the first floor of Children’s Wisconsin Hospital. 

Please stop at a Welcome desk to get a badge and directions to Imaging. There is free valet parking at the main entrance of the hospital.

What is a CT scan?

The CT scanner uses x-rays and a computer to look inside your child’s body.  The scans show pictures of different organs such as the brain, kidneys or liver.  Visit childrenswi.org/imaging for more information about our Imaging Department.

Ct scan

Special preparation 

Do not let your child eat or drink anything before the CT scan.  Use the guide below if your child is having sedation for their CT scan:

Important information

How the scan is done

After the scan

If your child was given medicine to make them sleepy, you can go home when your child is awake.  Your child may feel sleepy for a few hours after the scan.  Your child should stay home and rest for the day.  Your child should not go to school or to daycare.  Your child may do quiet things like read a book or watch TV.  Do not let your child ride a bike or climb anything.  The nurse or doctor will tell your family how to care for your child at home.

Results

Your ordering doctor will get the results of the test within 24 hours. It may take up to a week to review the information.  The doctor will share the results with you and your family.

ALERTA

Call your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic if you have any questions or concerns or if your child has special health care needs that were not covered by this information.