Did you know there are more than 30,000 MRI units installed worldwide? MRI exams are considered to be safer than CT scans or X-ray exams, as they are considered to be “imaging without radiation.” However,
accidents can still happen with the use of MRIs.
MRI units use strong magnetic fields with radio frequencies to produce digital images of human anatomy, especially vascular, orthopedic and neurological studies.
There are many hazards of MRI exams, including:
- Paper clips, jewelry, keys, oxygen tanks, IV poles, respirators, patient beds, wheelchairs and other objects with Ferromagnetic materials can become projectiles.
- Patient’s metallic surgical implants can become dislodged.
- If not handled properly, liquid cryogens can cause severe burns to engineers or leak gases into the room.
- Surgical implants can be heated by the RF coils and gradients.
- MRI gradients can produce noise levels above 100db that can cause hearing loss.
Preventing MRI accidents requires strict adherence to safety protocols, staff training, and patient screening. Here are key steps to minimize risks:
Screening and Preparation
- Thorough Patient Screening: Check for metal implants, pacemakers, aneurysm clips and any metallic objects that could be hazardous.
- Remove All Metal Objects: Jewelry, watches, keys, credit cards and any loose metallic items must be removed before entering the MRI suite.
- Clothing and Accessories: Ensure patients and staff wear MRI-safe clothing (no hidden metal zippers, buttons or threads).
Pregnancy Considerations: Evaluate risks before scanning pregnant individuals, especially in the first trimester.
Controlled Access to MRI Room
• Limit Entry: Only trained personnel should have access to the MRI suite.
• Zoning System: Implement the 4-Zone MRI Safety Model:
o Zone 1: Public area (reception, waiting rooms).
o Zone 2: Screening and preparation area.
o Zone 3: Controlled access (MRI control room).
o Zone 4: MRI scanner room (restricted access, no unauthorized personnel).
Magnetic Field Safety
- Ferromagnetic Object Detection: Use metal detectors or ferromagnetic screening systems to identify unauthorized metallic objects.
- Proper Equipment Use: Only MRI-compatible devices (stretchers, wheelchairs, oxygen tanks, IV poles) should be allowed inside the MRI room.
- Signage and Warnings: Clearly label all doors and entry points with MRI safety warnings.
- Comprehensive Training: Regularly train staff on MRI safety, emergency shutdown procedures and patient monitoring.
- Quench Procedure Knowledge: Understand when and how to manually quench the magnet in emergencies.
- Emergency Response Plan: Establish protocols for handling patient distress, fire, and medical emergencies inside the MRI suite.
- Avoid Skin-to-Skin Contact: Use insulation to prevent loops in conductive materials (e.g., wires, leads).
- Proper Positioning: Ensure cables and monitoring leads do not form loops.
- Check for Conductive Materials: Remove patches, tattoos with metallic ink and medication patches that may heat up during scanning.
- Clear Instructions: Explain MRI procedures, safety precautions and potential risks.
- Use Call Buttons: Provide patients with an emergency call button for immediate communication during the scan.
- Monitor Patients Closely: Continuously observe high-risk patients, such as those with claustrophobia or medical conditions.
By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of MRI-related accidents at your imaging facility.
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Meet the author: Vikki Harmonay
