Routine daily chest radiographs in pediatric critical care: necessary standard or unwarranted practice?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The routine use of daily chest radiographs in pediatric critical care remains common in the management of critically ill children. However, this practice has come under question. This review evaluates whether daily chest radiography is necessary. RECENT FINDINGS: The evidence indicates that the practice of daily chest radiography does not significantly improve clinical outcomes in children. It also does not replace careful clinical assessment, exposes children to unnecessary radiation with potential long-term risk, and may reflect defensive medical practice rather than patient-centered decision-making. SUMMARY: Providers should base imaging decisions on clinical findings and changes in patient condition rather than on a routine schedule of obtaining studies.