What is a kidney ultrasound?
Ultrasound uses sound waves to take pictures of the inside of the body. A kidney ultrasound takes pictures of the kidney, ureters and bladder.
Before the test
- Before coming to the hospital, read this explanation and explain to your child what will happen during the ultrasound test.
- When you come to the hospital, bring along a bottle for your 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.
- If your child takes medications ordered by a doctor, give them at their scheduled time with a sip of water.
- Follow the eating / drinking instructions below so your child will have a full bladder for the test. The ultrasound waves can see the bladder better if it has urine in it. It is best if your child drinks fluids such as water, juices, or fruit punch. Follow the list below for how much to give your child.
- 2 months - 1 year old: Nothing to eat or drink for 3 hours before the test
- 1 - 3 years old: 4 - 6 ounces 30 minutes before the test
- 3 - 6 years old: 8 - 12 ounces 30-60 minutes before the test
- 6 - 12 years old: 12 - 16 ounces 30-60 minutes before the test
- 12 - 18 years old: 16 - 18 ounces 60 minutes before the test
Try very hard to keep your child from urinating after he / she drinks these extra fluids.
Note: If your child is scheduled for another exam and is not allowed to eat or drink, do not give the extra fluids listed above and do not let your child urinate for 6 - 8 hours before the ultrasound.
During the test
While the ultrasound test is being done, your child will need to be still on a soft table for 30 minutes or longer.
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.
It is possible that during the procedure your child may experience some discomfort. Please tell the doctor, nurse or technologist if pain occurs.
After the test
When the test is over, your child may return to regular daily activities and meals. If your child had sedation, a nurse or doctor will give you special instructions.
The report of the results will be sent to your child's doctor, who will discuss the test results with you.
Related Topics
Follow-up Kidney Ultrasound
Contact Us
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
Patient Education Program III 3009 2/92
Rev. 3/07
