How to Prepare for Most MRI Exams
Adult and Child (Over 6 Years of Age)

Please call outpatient imaging locations or hospital departments if you think you have a condition that might prevent a MRI exam.

Contraindications

• Pacemaker
• Aneurysm clips, stents
• Inner ear implants
• Pregnant
• Bone or neuro stimulators
• Metal shavings and / or BB's in your eyes
• Permanent eyeliner, piercings
• Some physical limitations
• Recent surgery

Plan ahead:

• Remove or leave jewelry and / or metal objects at home. Remove keys and watches before your examination. Strong magnetic fields can erase the information on credit cards. Gold wedding rings are non-magnetic and may be worn.
  
  
• Remove eye make up, wigs, hairpieces, hair extensions and hairpins. Materials in these products can interfere with accurate interpretation of your images.
  
  
• Patients requiring sedation. See below.
  
  
• Bring your most recent x-ray, CT or MRI scans. Bring your health insurance information, physician referral and any necessary forms.
  
  
• Check in 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time to register for your MRI exam and complete screening forms.
  
  
• Plan at least 45 – 60 additional minutes to complete the exam.
  
  

If your doctor has prescribed oral sedation or pain medication:

• Arrive at the radiology reception desk 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment to register for your MRI exam and take your prescribed medication.
  
  
• Avoid use of caffeinated products on the day of your exam.
  
  
• Make arrangements to be driven home after your procedure.
  
  
• Plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Do not drive, operate machinery or make important (legal) decisions for 24 hours following your examination or procedure.

If examination is scheduled in a hospital department and your doctor has prescribed conscious / IV sedation:

Do not eat or drink anything from the hour of midnight before your exam. Conscious / IV sedation requires an empty stomach.

Arrive at the radiology reception desk 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time to register for your exam.

Make arrangements to be driven home after your procedure.