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Helping Your Child Through an MRI

My daughter needed her first MRI when she was in 5th grade.  As we struggled to find the correct diagnosis for her and as her symptoms evolved, she needed several more MRIs.  She has actually done so many that I have lost count.

At one point, she made an MRI machine for her Barbie.  I guess even Barbie needs an MRI every now and then!





Through those MRIs, I've learned a couple things about what to expect and how to make the process less stressful.

1. My daughter did MRIs at 3 different hospitals.  In all but one, I was allowed to go in the room and sit with her the entire time.  It is okay to ask if you can stay with your child.  The hospital might say no, but maybe they will say yes.

2. For one of her MRIs, she had to be sedated.  For that one, I was not allowed to be in the room with her.

3. Bring a CD with your child's favorite music.  The hospital will often have music available, but if your child has a favorite, bring that along.  Sometimes they can play it through headphones during the MRI to help keep your child calm.  Some hospitals even have movies the kids can watch during the MRI.  My daughter thought that was very cool! 

4. If you are allowed to go in with your child, you will be asked to put on a hospital gown and you need to make sure you have no metal on you.  Take out earrings, hairpins, etc.  Under my hospital gown, they have allowed me to keep on leggings and a sports bra as long as there is no metal.  For some reason, my gold wedding ring is okay to keep on.  Bring your flip flops. 

5. Your child may need an IV before the MRI.  If your doctor wants pictures with "contrast" that requires an IV.

6. If your child is nervous about the MRI or the IV, see if your hospital has Child Life Specialists.  These are individuals trained to help children through stressful hospital events.  They have been lifesavers for us.  They provide support, laughter and even a stress ball to squeeze while the IV is put in.

7. The MRI machine is noisy!  You may want to give your child a heads up about the noise.  You will be asked to wear ear plugs while you are in the room.

All of the MRI technicians that we have worked with have been amazing.  They are so kind and patient. Some MRIs can be very long, so be prepared to be there awhile.  A positive attitude and patience are definitely needed.

If you have other tips for families, please add them in the comments below.  Let's learn together!

Follow me on Twitter: @BusyMomB

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