General X-Ray Preparation Guide
Everything you need to know before your X-ray appointment. Quick, simple, and usually no preparation required.
Preparation Checklist
Simple steps to follow before your general X-ray appointment.
Usually No Preparation Needed
Most general X-rays require no special preparation. You can eat, drink, and take medications as normal unless told otherwise.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Depending on the area being scanned, you may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
Remove Metal Items
Remove jewellery, watches, belts, hair clips, and any metal objects from the area being scanned. Metal interferes with X-ray images.
Arrive 10–15 Minutes Early
Please arrive before your scheduled time to allow for registration and any required paperwork without delaying your appointment.
Please Bring With You
- Doctor referral letter
- Medicare card
- Previous imaging reports
- Concession cards (if applicable)
What to Expect
A simple overview of what happens at your X-ray appointment.
Arrival & Check-In
Our receptionist will check you in and confirm your details. Please have your referral and Medicare card ready on arrival.
Preparation
Our radiographer will ask you to remove any metal items near the scan area. You may be asked to change into a gown for certain X-rays.
The X-Ray
You will be positioned by the radiographer and asked to stay still briefly while the image is taken. Most X-rays are completed in just a few minutes.
Results & Next Steps
Images are reviewed by our radiologist and a detailed report is sent directly to your referring doctor for discussion at your follow-up appointment.
Common X-Ray Body Areas
General X-rays can be performed on a wide range of areas depending on your referral.
Chest
Heart, lungs and ribcage assessment. One of the most common X-ray types.
Spine
Cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine views for back pain and posture assessment.
Joints
Shoulders, hips, knees, ankles, and elbows for arthritis and injury assessment.
Abdomen
Assessment of abdominal organs, bowel gas patterns, and calcifications.
Upper Limbs
Hand, wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder imaging for fractures and injuries.
Lower Limbs
Foot, ankle, tibia, knee, and hip imaging for fractures, arthritis, and injuries.
Important Information
Key details to be aware of before attending your X-ray appointment.
Fast & Simple Procedure
Most X-rays are completed in just a few minutes. The procedure is painless and non-invasive — you simply stand, sit, or lie in the required position while the image is taken.
Low Radiation Dose
X-rays use a very small amount of ionising radiation. The dose is carefully controlled and considered safe for diagnostic purposes. Our team follows strict radiation safety protocols.
Pregnancy Notice
Please inform our staff if you are pregnant or may be pregnant before your X-ray. We may need to take additional precautions or discuss alternative imaging options with you.
Your Results
A detailed report is prepared by our radiologist and sent to your referring doctor. Results are not provided on the day — please follow up with your doctor to discuss findings.
Please contact us before your appointment
If any of the following situations apply to you, please get in touch with our team in advance so we can best support your care.
Please let us know if
- You are pregnant or unsure if you may be pregnant
- You need mobility assistance or have accessibility requirements
- You have questions about preparation for your specific X-ray
- You need to reschedule your appointment
Have a question or need to get in touch?
Our friendly team is available to assist you before, during, and after your appointment. Don't hesitate to reach out — we're here to help.
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