MRI safety—developing the right culture

Abstract

In recent years, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) among pediatric populations has risen, requiring strict adherence to MRI safety protocols for patient care. Children often face more complex safety risks compared to adult populations due to several challenges, such as increased need for sedation, and the limited data and testing on implant safety in pediatric patients. Our aim is to examine the key features of MRI safety and how safety culture impacts important aspects of MRI processes, including patient and staff screening, physical barriers, zoning regulations, emergency response protocols, and adverse event management. This article also explores the cornerstone of MRI safety, the Just Culture approach, which emphasizes transparency, accountability, and improvement of processes over punishment. Key efforts towards building and maintaining safety culture focus on raising awareness, outlining escalation procedures, and instilling a safety-first mindset. Given MRI safety’s critical importance in pediatric patient care and staff well-being, the development of a culture that supports these goals is an imperative for every imaging center.