Communication during children's X-ray procedures and children's experiences of the procedure: A scoping review

Communication is a central part of radiological procedures and influences children's experiences. Previous research concentrates on communication and experiences during complex radiological procedures such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Less is known about the communication that occurs with children undergoing procedures, such as non-urgent X-ray procedures, or the impact communication has on a child's experience.

This scoping review examined evidence relating to the communication which occurs between children, parents and radiographers during children's X-ray procedures and how children experience undergoing X-ray procedures.

The comprehensive search identified eight papers. Evidence shows that radiographers dominate communication during X-ray procedures, with their communication in many cases being instructional, closed and limiting the opportunities for children to be involved. Evidence indicates that radiographers have a role in facilitating children in actively engaging in communication during their procedure. The papers that sought children's first-hand experiences highlight children's mainly positive experiences of having an X-ray, and the importance of informing children about their X-ray before and during the procedure.

The scarcity of literature highlights a need for research exploring communication during children's radiological procedures and children's first-hand experiences of undergoing these procedures. Findings highlight a need for an approach that recognises the importance of dyadic (radiographer and child), and triadic (radiographer, parent and child) communication opportunities during an X-ray procedure.

This review highlights a need for an inclusive and participatory approach to communication that recognises children's voice and agency in X-ray procedures.