Reducing Claustrophobia in MRI

officiallymyrian
Aug 11, 2024
2 min read

Several patients are scheduled for MRI scans, and you may encounter some patients who are claustrophobic. Claustrophobia occurs in different patients for different reasons. It is my job as an MRI technologist to assist the patient during their MRI scan, while keeping them calm. What causes claustrophobia in patients? Claustrophobia may be caused by a known trauma that a person has gone through or is going through, or they could have gotten trauma from someone else experience.

How to keep calm during an MRI scan?

I always reassure the patient that I am close by and outside the MRI scanner room performing their scan and watching and listening to them the entire time. I explain the MRI exam thoroughly to the patient, let them know the timeframe of the exam, remind them to remain still the entire time to avoid repeats, provide music to the patient, and the emergency call ball. Some patients are able to get through the MRI scan with a towel covering their eyes and some patients do not like anything covering their eyes. For my claustrophobic patients, I do not recommend a blanket. Blankets tend to make claustrophobic patients more anxious. I offer the patient a blanket since it is a little cold inside the MRI room, but I always tell them I do not recommend one. This will vary, but most of my claustrophobic patients do not want a blanket.

I always offer relaxing music to the patient, keep them informed throughout the entire process, and remain patient with them. Some patients prefer having a family member inside of the MRI room as well, but the family member will have to get screened for any implants or electronic devices and sign an MRI screening form as well. Some patients need anxiety medication to get them through the scan. This is normally ordered by an ordering physician. If the patient is an outpatient, it is recommended that a driver comes with them for their appointment to drive them home after the scan.

The end goal!

Some patients are embarrassed that they are claustrophobic. I always tell patients that there is nothing to be embarrassed about and share my story of roller coaster fears, which started when I watched a fictional movie (I won't say the name). I remind them how important their MRI exam is and remind them that the machine is only loud and to hold still. Some patients aren't able to start or continue with the MRI examination, and that is okay. When this happens, I always suggest them to reschedule their MRI appointment and to speak with their doctor about sedatives.

Tips and tricks for the patient to reduce their claustrophobic!

Think happy thoughts.
Listen to music.
Count to themselves to pass time.
Bring someone to support them.
Hold still.
Focus on breathing normal.
Remind yourself that this examination is important to avoid delaying medical care and treatment.
Ask your doctor for anxiety medication.
Face your fears!