Information alert

If you need a large print, audio, braille, easy-read, age-friendly or translated copy of this page, email the patient information team at uclh.patientinformation@nhs.net. We will do our best to meet your needs.

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Having an x-ray

Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_2.png An x-ray is where they take a picture that can see
inside your body
Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_3.png You might need to have an x-ray if you are hurt or
feeling unwell
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Before the x-ray

You might already be in hospital, or you might come in just for the x-ray

Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_5.png When you arrive, go to the x-ray department
Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_6.png A receptionist will ask for your
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  • name
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  • date of birth
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  • and address
Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_10.png If you have a form, give it to the receptionist
Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_11.png You will then sit in the waiting area
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The radiographer will call your name when they are ready for you

A radiographer is the person who takes the x-ray

Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_13.png For some x-rays you will be asked if you could be pregnant – it is important you tell them if you think you could be pregnant
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Getting ready

You might go to the x-ray department in a wheelchair or on a trolley - you carer can come with you

Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_15.png The radiographer will ask your name, date of birth and address again
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You might need to

  • undress in a changing room - you will be given a hospital gown to wear
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  • take off your jewellery or your watch
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  • your carer can help and look after your things
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During the x-ray

You might need to sit, stand or lie down

Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_20.png The x-ray camera will be moved into place - it might make a noise
Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_21.png The radiographer might ask you to move or turn
Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_22.png The radiographer will go behind a screen but can still see and hear you
Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_23.png You will hear a beep - stay very still
Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_24.png The x-ray only takes a few seconds and doesn’t hurt
Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_25.png Your carer can stay in the room - but might need to stand behind the screen
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After the x-ray

The radiographer will check the x-ray before you go to make sure they can see the right things

Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_27.png They will tell you when its finished and what to do next
Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_28.png You can get dressed and put your jewellery back on
Having_an_Xray_EasyRead_29.png The results will be sent to the person who asked for the x-ray
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If you need help

If you or your carer need help while you are in the hospital, ask the radiographer to contact PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Service) for you

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You can find more easy read information on the hospital website

www.uclh.nhs.uk


Page last updated: 02 October 2025

Review due: 01 October 2027