Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is “a way of obtaining very detailed images of organs and tissues throughout the body without the need for x-rays or ionizing radiation” (Radiology Info, nd). While reducing the exposure to ionizing radiation is a positive aspect of the MRI, the fact that we are now dealing with an extremely powerful magnet in a world where so much is attracted to that magnet, creates the need for a safety plan that has little room for error.

The outcome of many of the errors made during an MRI are often severe or deadly. This adds to the stress of those who are a part of the team providing this procedure to the patient. As individuals who are working in this area of healthcare, knowing what needs to be done to eliminate the risk of these errors from occurring is essential. The focus of this program is to address the safety of patients and staff during the MRI procedure.

Objectives

After studying the information presented, the reader should be able to:

• Detect the most prevalent errors that lead to serious accidents, including death.
• Identify some of the most predominant errors that can and do occur during an MRI.
• Pinpoint rules and regulations for MRI settings including the four specific zones in the MRI Suite.
• Recognize the most common causes of injuries.
• Determine the framework from which safety practices can be developed.
• Pinpoint MRI rules, regulations and guidelines and give examples of what should be Included.
• Identify established standards for safety.
• Understand the principles of Crew Management and how it applies to healthcare.
• Identify standards that guide the provision of healthcare.
• Pinpoint the ethics and economics of Safe Care.
• Provide examples of what should be Included in an MRI Policy/Procedure Manual (based on the information in the ACR Guidance Document on Safe MR Practices 2013).