What an X-ray is
An X‑ray uses a small amount of radiation to create images of the inside of the body.
They're are commonly used to look at:
- bones and joints
- the chest and lungs
- teeth
- some organs and soft tissues
X‑rays help doctors diagnose injuries and medical conditions and monitor treatment.
Preparing for your appointment
Your appointment letter will include detailed instructions about what to do before your appointment, read it carefully.
Visit Radiology Department: information for patients for more information about:
- what to expect at your appointment
- changing or cancelling an appointment
- fees and charges
- bringing someone with you
- accessibility and language support
What to expect at your appointment
A radiographer will take your X‑ray and explain what you need to do.
Depending on the part of your body being examined, they may ask you to:
- lie down
- stand
- sit in a chair
They’ll make you as comfortable as possible.
The radiographer will place a detector behind the part of your body being X‑rayed.
You’ll be asked to keep very still for a few seconds while the X‑ray is taken, as movement can make the image blurred.
The X‑ray machine sends a very short burst of X‑rays through your body. This is painless, you can't see or feel X‑rays.
The video guidance for X-ray patients at the General Hospital on YouTube explains what happens during an X-ray examination.
How long it takes
Most X-rays only take a few minutes and we aim to carry out examinations on time.
Allow 30 minutes for your appointment as we sometimes have emergencies. We'll let you know if there are delays.
After your X‑ray
There are no after‑effects from having an X‑ray.
You can usually drive, and return to work or normal activities on the same day.
Getting your results
A radiologist will review your X‑ray images and send a report to the doctor or healthcare professional who requested your test.
If your GP requested the X‑ray, you’ll be advised when and how your results will be available.
If you were referred by a hospital consultant, you’ll usually receive your results at your next appointment or when you next speak to them.
Radiation safety
X-rays are a form of ionising radiation and have enough energy to cause damage to cells. This can increase the risk of cancer later in life. These risks to health are considered very low. Learn more about the radiation safety.
gov.je