Introduction to MRI Safety

• Identify the hazards and dangers related to the MRI environment
• Describe the possible risks associated with MRI examinations
• Explain the reasons for the screening procedure required for an individual and patient prior to being allowed into to the MRI environment or to undergo an MRI examination
• Describe recommendations to prevent accidents and injuries in the MRI environment

Training Requirements Addressed

• American College of Radiology: The "ACR Guidance Document for Safe MR Practices: 2007" advises training of Level 1 Personnel, defined as "those who have passed minimal safety educational efforts to ensure their own safety." The Introduction to MRI Safety Training Program was developed to accomplish the important task of formally training these particular MRI staff members, employees, and others.
• The Joint Commission Requirements Regarding Environment of Care: The Joint Commission's Environment of Care (EC) that went into effect in January 2009 includes key Elements of Performance (EP) essential to maintaining patient safety within the environment of care. These EP require that staff and licensed practitioners effectively describe and demonstrate methods of eliminating and minimizing physical risks and the actions to take in the event of an Environment of Care incident. Furthermore, this EP requires that the hospital or facility determine the key safety content of orientation provided to staff. The standard HR.01.05.03 requires that staff participate in ongoing education and training that is documented. The implementation of the Introduction to MRI Safety Training Program satisfies the Joint Commission?s requirements stated above.

Intended Audience
All non-clinical hospital staff or those working in MRI facilities, as well as those who may access the MRI environment periodically, including researchers and volunteer subjects, students, custodial workers, security officers, police officers, firefighters, and first responders.

Disclaimer Shellock R & D Services, Inc. and the author disclaim any liability for the acts of any physician, individual, group, or entity acting independently or on behalf of any organization that receives any information for any medical procedure, activity, service, or other situation through the use of the content on this work including the video and related materials. This video and other associated content make no representations or warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, as to the information content, materials or products, included in this video program and other content. The Shellock R & D Services, Inc. and the author assume no responsibilities for errors or omissions that may include technical or other inaccuracies, or typographical errors. The Shellock R & D Services, Inc. and the author accept no legal responsibility for any injury and/or damage to persons or property from any of the methods, products, instructions, or ideas contained herein. The Shellock R & D Services, Inc. and the author will not be held liable for any damages of any kind arising from the use of this information, including but not limited to direct, indirect, incidental punitive, and consequential damages. The information and comments provided in this video program and other content are not intended to be technical or medical recommendations or advice for individuals or patients. The information and comments provided herein are of a general nature and should not be considered specific to any individual or patient, whether or not a specific patient is referenced by the physician, technologist, individual, group, or other entity seeking information. The Shellock R & D Services, Inc. and author take no responsibility for the accuracy or validity of the information contained in this program and other content nor the claims or statements of any manufacturer. Manufacturers' product specifications are subject to change without notice. Always read the product labeling, instructions and warning statements thoroughly before using any medical product or similar device. Regarding the MRI labeling information or recommendations for a given material, implant, device, or object that may be discussed herein, because of the ongoing research, equipment modifications, and changes in governmental regulations, no product information should be used unless the reader has reviewed and evaluated the information provided with the product discussed or by reviewing the pertinent literature.