How to help someone cope with having to do a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)?

Strategies to Help Someone Cope with an MRI

The most effective approach to help someone cope with an MRI is to provide clear information about the procedure, create a comfortable environment, and offer specific distraction techniques during the scan.

Pre-MRI Preparation

Communication and Education

• Provide a clear, concise explanation of the MRI procedure in age-appropriate language 1
• Explain what will happen during the scan (procedural information), what sensations to expect (sensory information), and coping strategies (self-regulation information) 1
• Use analogies from everyday life to explain the procedure (e.g., "It's like taking a photograph - you need to stay still or it will be blurry") 1
• Address specific concerns about claustrophobia directly if the patient mentions fear of small spaces 1
• Discuss any questions or concerns the patient has about the procedure 1

Environmental Considerations

• Create a welcoming, comfortable environment in the waiting area with appropriate decorations 1
• Allow patients to bring their own comfort items from home (favorite toys, music, etc.) 1
• Minimize waiting time before the procedure to reduce anticipatory anxiety 1
• Consider having the patient visit the MRI suite before the scheduled appointment to familiarize themselves with the environment

During the MRI

Comfort Measures

• Offer blankets or cushions to make the patient more physically comfortable
• Position the patient as comfortably as possible before beginning the scan
• Ensure room temperature is comfortable 2
• Provide earplugs or headphones to reduce noise discomfort 2

Distraction Techniques

• Implement audiovisual distraction tools if available (music, videos) 1, 3
• Encourage the use of visualization techniques (imagining pleasant scenes) 2
• Suggest mental exercises or games to focus on during the scan 2
• Teach simple breathing relaxation techniques before the scan begins 2

Support Person

• Allow a support person to remain in the room during the scan when possible 1
• Ensure the support person understands how they can help (e.g., maintaining verbal contact, offering reassurance)
• For children, encourage parental presence as it reassures the child and improves study outcomes 1

Special Considerations

For Children

• Use age-appropriate explanations and preparation 1
• Consider involving play specialists to help prepare children 1
• Reward cooperative behavior with small prizes or certificates 1
• Create a child-friendly environment with appropriate decorations and toys 1

For Claustrophobic Patients

• Consider scheduling the shortest possible protocol that will answer the clinical question 3
• Discuss positioning options (e.g., feet-first entry if possible)
• Provide a call button or similar device so the patient can signal if they need a break
• Consider whether open MRI options are available if severe claustrophobia is present

For Anxious Patients

• Maintain continuous verbal communication throughout the procedure 1
• Explain any delays or additional sequences that may be needed 1
• Use a calm, reassuring tone when speaking with the patient
• Provide countdown information (e.g., "Just 2 more minutes for this sequence")

Potential Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don't assume patients understand the procedure, even if they've had an MRI before 1
• Don't ignore signs of increasing anxiety during the scan
• Don't criticize patients or support persons for their anxiety 1
• Don't rush the preparation process, as adequate preparation reduces anxiety
• Don't underestimate the impact of noise and confined space on patient comfort 2

By implementing these strategies, healthcare providers can significantly improve the MRI experience for patients, potentially reducing the need for sedation, decreasing motion artifacts, and improving overall image quality while prioritizing patient comfort and well-being.