Perspective, Arch Med Biotechnol Vol: 4 Issue: 1
Patient Experience and Strategies to Improve Patient Comfort and Reduce Anxiety during MRI Procedures
Hiroya Zhang*
Department of Radiology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Jing'an District Shanghai, China
*Corresponding Author: Hiroya Zhang
Department of Radiology, Huashan
Hospital, Fudan University, Jing'an District Shanghai, China
E-mail: hiroyazhang@fudan.edu.cn
Received date: 21 February, 2023, Manuscript No. AMB-23-93299;
Editor assigned date: 23 February, 2023, Pre QC No. AMB-23-93299(PQ);
Reviewed date: 07 March, 2023, QC No. AMB-23-93299;
Revised date: 14 March, 2023, Manuscript No. AMB-23-93299(R);
Published date: 24 March, 2023, DOI: 10.4172/amb.1000035
Citation: Zhang H (2023) Patient xperience and Strategies to Improve Patient Comfort and Reduce Anxiety during MRI Procedures. Arch Med Biotechnol 4:1.
Abstract
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic medical imaging technology that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce images of the internal structures of the body. MRI is an important tool in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of medical conditions, including brain and spinal cord disorders, musculoskeletal injuries, and cancer. However, for some patients, the experience of undergoing an MRI scan can be stressful and anxietyinducing
Keywords: Biotechnology
Description
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic medical imaging technology that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce images of the internal structures of the body. MRI is an important tool in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of medical conditions, including brain and spinal cord disorders, musculoskeletal injuries, and cancer. However, for some patients, the experience of undergoing an MRI scan can be stressful and anxietyinducing [1].
Patient anxiety during MRI procedures can be caused by a number of factors, including the confined space of the MRI machine, the noise produced by the machine, and the fear of the unknown. Patients who are claustrophobic, have a history of anxiety or panic attacks, or are uncomfortable in medical settings may be particularly susceptible to anxiety during MRI scans [2,3].
Strategies to enhancing patient comfort and reduce anxiety
Education and communication: Healthcare providers can help to reduce patient anxiety by providing clear and detailed information about the MRI procedure, including what to expect during the scan and how to prepare for it. This can include explaining the purpose of the scan, the duration of the procedure, and the types of noises that the patient will hear during the scan. Healthcare providers should also encourage patients to ask questions and express any concerns that they may have.
Music and relaxation techniques: Playing music or providing headphones during the MRI scan can help to distract the patient from the noise of the machine and create a more calming environment. In addition, healthcare providers can teach patients relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or visualization, which can help to reduce anxiety during the scan [4-6].
Sedation and anesthesia: For patients who are unable to tolerate the MRI scan due to severe anxiety or claustrophobia, sedation or anesthesia may be an option. This can help to calm the patient and reduce anxiety, but it also comes with risks and should only be used when necessary and with careful monitoring [7].
Open MRI machines: Open MRI machines are designed to provide a more open and less confining environment for patients during the scan. While open MRI machines may not provide the same level of image quality as closed MRI machines, they can be a useful option for patients who are unable to tolerate the confined space of a closed MRI machine [8].
Communication during the scan: Healthcare providers can help to reduce patient anxiety during the scan by communicating with the patient through an intercom system or by providing them with a panic button that they can use to communicate with the technician if they experience any discomfort or anxiety [9].
Patient positioning and comfort: Healthcare providers can improve patient comfort during the scan by ensuring that the patient is positioned comfortably and has adequate support for any areas of the body that may be uncomfortable or painful. This can include providing pillows, blankets, or other support devices.
Personalization and distraction: Healthcare providers can help to personalize the MRI experience for the patient by allowing them to bring in personal items such as a favorite blanket or stuffed animal. Distraction techniques such as movies or virtual reality headsets can also be used to help distract the patient from the scan [10].
Conclusion
In conclusion, MRI scans are an important tool in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of medical conditions. However, for some patients, the experience of undergoing an MRI scan can be stressful and anxiety-inducing. Healthcare providers can implement a number of strategies to improve patient comfort and reduce anxiety during MRI procedures, including education and communication, music and relaxation techniques, sedation and anesthesia, open MRI machines, communication during the scan, patient positioning and comfort, and personalization and distraction. By implementing these strategies, healthcare providers can help to ensure that MRI scans are a positive and effective experience
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