MRI Safety Lecture Notes

Introduction to MRI Safety

• MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Potentially the most dangerous area in the hospital if guidelines are not followed.
• Continuous monitoring is crucial for safety.

Basics of MRI Technology

• Magnetic Field Creation
  • Coils of wire with electricity create the magnetic field.
  • Coils are cooled using liquid helium (cryogen gas) to eliminate electrical resistance.
  • Magnetic field is always on, even when not in use.
• Emergency Protocols
  • Magnet can be turned off in emergencies by hitting the quench button.
  • Quenching collapses the magnetic field and releases helium gas outside the building.
  • Quenching is costly and delays patient care.

Dangers of MRI

• Release of helium gas can cause severe burns and rapid oxygen depletion.
• MRI uses strong magnets (1.5 Tesla) and radio waves for imaging.
• Hydrogen molecules in the body align in the field; radio waves convert signals into images.

MRI Safety Precautions

• Screening Procedures
  • Ferromagnetic materials like iron, nickel, and cobalt are prohibited.
  • Thorough screening of all persons entering the MRI room.
  • Persons with pacemakers, aneurysm clips, or metal in the body must be screened.
• Specific Risks
  • Pacemakers can malfunction; wires can heat up.
  • Metal splinters in the eye can cause blindness.

Importance of Education

• Essential to educate staff, EMS, and police officers on MRI safety.
• Emergency personnel cannot enter MRI room with equipment.
• Special MRI-safe equipment is used (e.g., wheelchair, IV pole).
• Items to be removed: belts, hair pins, wallets, credit cards, watches, phones, etc.

Demonstration of Magnetic Strength

• Experiment with a foam stress ball and magnetic washers.
• Objects like oxygen tanks can become dangerous projectiles.

Emergency Protocol

• MRI technologist responsibility to remove the patient in an emergency.
• Code carts cannot enter the MRI room.

Conclusion

• MRI is a critical diagnostic tool without ionizing radiation.
• Safety through education is paramount.

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• Emphasize the importance of adherence to safety protocols and constant vigilance.
• Understanding MRI safety can prevent severe accidents and ensure patient well-being.