The Importance of Avoiding Unnecessary Chest X-Rays

Ordering chest x-rays in pediatric respiratory conditions like bronchiolitis, asthma, croup, and first-time wheezing should be minimized to reduce healthcare costs, unnecessary radiation exposure, and inaccurate diagnoses. Despite the common occurrence of respiratory conditions in emergency care settings, many can be accurately diagnosed through history and physical exams alone, without the need for additional testing. Overuse of chest x-rays not only prolongs emergency department stays but also leads to the unnecessary prescription of antibiotics and potential cascade of clinical decisions.