Question

A nurse is preparing a client for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Which of the following statements should the nurse include when reinforcing teaching?

A. "You'll have to remove metal objects such as watches and body jewelry." Rationale: The magnetic field of the scanner attracts metal objects such as jewelry and snaps or
decorations on clothing. The field does not, however, attract materials made of steel or titanium.
B."Your exposure to radiation will be minimal." Rationale: The client will not have any exposure to radiation during the MRI.
C. "You will not be able to talk to the technician during the procedure." Rationale: The client will be able to communicate with the technician via a two-way communication system during the procedure. The technician can help guide the client through any feelings of claustrophobia.
D. "Unlike an x-ray, the MRI allows you to move around a bit." Rationale: The client must remain still during the procedure.

Answer 1

The nurse should inform the patient that they must remove all metal objects because the MRI's magnetic field can attract metal. There is no exposure to radiation during an MRI, and communication with the technician is possible throughout the procedure. The patient must remain still during the scan to ensure clear imaging.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct statement that the nurse should include when reinforcing teaching about MRI is "You'll have to remove metal objects such as watches and body jewelry." This is because the magnetic field of the MRI scanner attracts metal objects and could pose a danger or interfere with the imaging process. The field can attract materials made of steel or titanium, which means that some body piercings or implants could be problematic. Additionally, certain tattoos containing metal dyes may also react to the magnetic field.

It is important to clarify to the patient that they will have no exposure to radiation during an MRI, as it uses radio waves and magnets instead of ionizing radiation, like X-rays do. Despite MRI scans being able to produce highly detailed images without radiation risk, they have their own sets of limitations. The client must remain still during the scan to obtain clear images. Nevertheless, the patient can communicate with the technician via a two-way communication system.

Although alternative options like "open" MRI scanners exist, which do not entirely enclose the patient, traditional MRI scanners typically involve being inside a tube-shaped device. This situation can cause feelings of claustrophobia but is necessary for the detailed imaging process. It should also be noted that not everyone can undergo an MRI; for example, patients with iron-containing metallic implants may face complications, as the magnetic field may potentially move or heat these implants.