A common concern for Radiologic Technologists and for the parents of young children needing x-rays, is how to immobilize the patient and how to minimize the exposure to radiation. Children need x-rays for a variety of reasons. Broken bones, digestive problems, chest congestion/cough just to name a few. Babies and children are also images often to locate those coins, marbles, paper clips, and any other item that may have been swallowed. Babies and children are typical wiggle worms and remaining still for any length of time is typically not in their vocabulary. Movements during an x-ray however creates a blurry image. Blurred images are not good for the radiologist who is wanting to provide a diagnosis and/or determine the underlying cause of a problem or illness. Even though parents are often allowed in the imaging room to assist with immobilization, this is often ineffective and is not safe as there are dangers to radiation exposure. If the Radiologic Technologist holds the child, they are also at risk of unnecessary exposure. This is why we wanted to spend a few minutes discussing the options that are on the market today to aide with immobilization.
Effective and Necessary Pediatric Immobilizers:
Using an effective pediatric immobilization device helps make the imaging procedures quick and they also help minimize radiation exposure. When a baby or child is calm and relaxed, imaging procedures can be done with little to know immobilization. However, a scared baby or child can quickly escalate the situation where it can be a very traumatic experience for the patient, the parent as well as the Radiologic Technologist.
- Pigg O Stat is one of the most trusted immobilization devices for pediatrics in radiology since the 1960’s. It was the first clinically proven device that reduced radiation exposure to the pediatric patient. A fast, sure, and simple method for immobilizing and positioning children from infants to about 3 years of age
- Pediagraph – manufactured by Mr. Jeff Pigg is an updated modern-day version of the original Pigg O Stat. Many of the features were developed in response to welcomed suggestions from professionals who actually use pediatric immobilizers on a daily basis. The upper body supports are furnished in three sizes to accommodate the average infant and toddler.
- Pedia-Poser is a chair with three straps that provides fast, gentle, and secure immobilization of infants through 4-year olds for X-ray imaging . The chair is easily adjusted up and down.. The patient is secured only once: the chair rotates, quickly positioning for different views.
- Octostop is a unique pediatric immobilization solution that takes into consideration the best possible comfort of the young patients undergoing x-rays. Carefully selected wooden board, verified and radio-transparent. On one octogon, stable positions every 45°, on the support(s), ISOCENTRIC rotation and stability in all positions. Adapted head cushions, Velcro® straps and Velcro® blankets for fast immobilization
- Child Hugger is a unique design that safely and comfortably secures pediatric patients during CT scans
- Sponges are the simplest and most economical immobilizer. They are designed to support a body part and they can restrict motion and provide comfort which eases anxiety of the patient. They are available in a host of sizes and shapes to meet a variety of imaging needs.
- Sandbags are also simple and economical immobilizers to reduce and restrict motion of a body part being images. They are available in a wide variety of shapes and weights.
- Pediatric Blankets shield and protect children from radiation. Features a soft n’plush non-slip microfiber backing for added comfort and cute designs to decrease anxiety and fear during imaging procedures. While they are not exactly an immobilizer, they are popular in the pediatric imaging setting for protection.
Z&Z Medical promotes radiation safety for children and provides a variety of pediatric immobilizers and positioning devices to reduce radiation exposure, and reduce repeated examinations caused by motion. Visit our website today at www.zzmedical.com to see the variety of products we have to offer.
