Kidney Ultrasound: Follow-up
Explanation | Before | During | After
What is a kidney ultrasound?
Ultrasound uses sound waves to take pictures of the inside of the body. A follow-up kidney ultrasound takes pictures of the kidneys. The procedure and directions differ slightly between getting a kidney ultrasound for the first time and subsequent or follow-up kidney ultrasounds.
Before the test
- Before coming to the hospital, read this explanation and explain to your child what will happen during the ultrasound test.
- Children age 1 month to 1 year should have nothing to eat or drink for 3 hours before the test.
- When you come to the hospital, it is a good idea to bring along a bottle for a baby to drink during the test. Also bring a pacifier or special toy to help calm your child. For older children, bring books or a toy to occupy them while waiting.
During the test
During the ultrasound test, the technologist will rub warm gel on your child's abdomen and back. The technologist will then move a device that looks like a microphone on your child's belly and back. This is how the pictures are taken. The ultrasound test does not hurt and the ultrasound waves will not harm your child. Parents can stay in the ultrasound room during the test. The test takes about 30 minutes.
It is possible that during the procedure your child may experience some discomfort. Please tell the doctor, nurse or technologist if significant or prolonged pain occurs.
After the test
When the test is over, your child may return to regular daily activities and meals. The report of the test results will be sent to your child's doctor by the next day. He / she will discuss the results with you.
Related Topics
Kidney Ultrasound
Patient Education Program III 3042 5/97
Rev. 3/07
