Preparing Your Child for an MRI

MRIs can play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of medical conditions, and as a result, many patients must undergo this type of imaging test. However, these types of tests can have their own challenges for some patients, particularly for younger children.

For this reason, it can be quite helpful for parents to talk with their children about MRI exams before they undergo the procedure in order to ensure that the exam runs as smoothly as possible and the child is made to feel comfortable throughout the process. The following are a few tips to help you prepare your child for their MRI exam:

• Let your child know what they can expect. MRIs can take anywhere from 20-60 minutes, and during that time the patient needs to remain as still as possible for the best results. By letting your child know beforehand about how their procedure can go, it can make it easier for the child to come to the exam ready to be still for an extended period of time.
• Explain the exam’s importance. Many children don’t fully understand why it is so important that they successfully undergo an MRI, and as a result, they may be more reluctant to remain still during the exam. Explain to your child why the results matter to them to give them a better appreciation for the procedure.
• Reassure your child about the experience. Undergoing an MRI can be daunting for a lot of children, as being alone in a large machine that occasionally makes loud noises can be frightening for many kids. Let them know that the procedure will not be painful in any way, and that you’ll be there for them throughout the experience.

These simple steps can help to ensure that your child is fully prepared for their MRI and that the exam is conducted as effectively as possible.

Contact an Austin MRI Professional

At Longhorn Imaging Center, we specialize in MRI exams, so we have substantial experience working with clients for these imaging tests in a wide range of contexts, including significant experience working with children of all ages. Contact us at 512-444-8900 today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.