Question

Concerning MRI scanners, which of the following is true?

A) In the case of an emergency during anesthesia for a patient undergoing MRI, the magnetic field should be shut down to allow the anesthesia team rapid access to the patient.
B) All staff must wear dosimeters to keep track of their exposure to harmful magnetic radiation.
C) Modern anesthetic equipment is designed to be safely used in an MRI scanner.
D) Most MRI scans are of brief duration, and patients rarely require sedation.
E) Patients with any implantable device must be assessed by an MRI technologist for safety before entering the MRI scanner.

Answer 1

Modern anesthetic equipment is designed to be safe for use in MRI scanners, and it is crucial for patients with metallic implants to be evaluated for safety prior to an MRI procedure(option c). Dosimeters are not required for MRI staff because the scanners do not produce ionizing radiation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Concerning MRI scanners, the following is true: Modern anesthetic equipment is designed to be safely used in an MRI scanner. MRI machines use a large magnetic field generated by a solenoid to alter proton spins in the patient’s body, which provides highly detailed images of tissue structures without the radiation exposure of x-rays. However, patients with iron-containing metallic implants must be assessed for safety before undergoing an MRI, as the magnetic field can dislodge these implants. Additionally, certain types of MRIs, like functional MRIs (fMRIs), can provide important information about brain activities.

The proper statement related to the MRI procedure is C) Modern anesthetic equipment is designed to be safely used in an MRI scanner.

There is no need for dosimeters to track exposure since MRI does not emit harmful ionizing radiation. MRI procedures may often require sedation for patient comfort, especially for those who are anxious or claustrophobic. Furthermore, it is imperative for all patients with implantable devices to be assessed for safety by an MRI technologist before entering the scanner due to potential risks posed by the strong magnetic field.