Keywords:
MR physics, Radiographers, MR, Safety, Education and training
Authors:
C. Baker, B. J. Nugent, D. Grainger, J. D. Hewis, C. Malamateniou
DOI:
10.26044/ecr2024/C-13513
Results
Included studies were examined using thematic analysis to determine if holistic recommendations can be provided to assist in preventing skin burns. Recommended actions to assist in preventing skin thermal injuries were considered and summarised, as shown in Table 1.
Correct placement of patient padding was one of the key recommendations from Table 1. How to position padding for a typical MRI scan of a shoulder is displayed in Figure 1.
There were nine key themes drawn from the data, as detailed in Table 2.
The nine key themes were simplified into three recommendations, as shown in Figure 2:
- Remove any electrically conductive items
- Insulate the patient to prevent any conductive loops or contact with conductive objects
- Communicate regularly
These recommendations with the headings 'Remove', 'Insulate' and 'Communicate' make up the acronym 'RIC'. An acronym such as this may provide a simple way for all MRI practitioners to remember best practice to prevent thermal injuries to patients undergoing an MRI scan.