Situations:
(1) The patient is aware of possible distress prior to the procedure.
(2) The distress develops after the patient enters the chamber.
General recommendations:
(1) Do not order an MRI scan unless it is necessary.
(2) Select a scanner with a more open (less closed) testing chamber.
(3) Inform the patient about the scanning procedure and repeatedly emphasize the positive features of the process.
(4) Talk to the patient before, during and after the procedures. Try to have a trusted friend or family member accompany the patient (after screening for and removing any ferromagnetic items).
(5) If possible position the patient face down (prone) with the head close to the chamber opening.
(6) Try to distract and reassure the patient during the procedure (covering the eyes, providing music, providing good lighting, providing a virtual reality environment).
(7) Try nonpharmacologic relaxation techniques (aromatherapy, controlled breathing, body imaging, hypnosis, other).
(8) Consider a low dose pharmacologic anxiolytic if other methods unsuccessful.
