Establishing a magnetic resonance safety program

Abstract

Establishing a magnetic resonance (MR) safety program is crucial to ensuring the safe MR imaging of pediatric patients. The organizational structure includes a core safety council and broader safety committee comprising all key stakeholders. These groups work in synchrony to establish a strong culture of safety; create and maintain policies and procedures; implement device regulations for entry into the MR setting; construct MR safety zones; address intraoperative MR concerns; guarantee safe scanning parameters, including complying with specific absorption rate limitations; adhere to national regulatory body guidelines; and ensure appropriate communication among all parties in the MR environment. Perspectives on the duties of the safety council members provide important insight into the organization of program oversite. Ultimately, the collective dedication and vigilance of all MR staff are crucial to the success of a safety program.

MRI Safety Practice Observations in MRI Facilities Within the Kingdom of Jordan, Compared to the 2020 Manual on MR Safety of the American College of Radiology

“…ACR supports establishing, implementing, and reviewing the safety guidelines, considering it essential for passing MRI facility accreditation. 3 , 6 , 8 …”

“… 4 MRI has been extensively established throughout the last years, and more than 36,000 MRI scanners carry out nearly 95 to 100 million of examinations each year worldwide. 5 , 6 This indicates that providing MRI safety not only is an integral component for the imaging process, but it also is crucial for all involved parties, including MR personnel, patients, and health-care professionals. Ignoring this importance in the MRI, however, may pose severe risks to patients, staff, and equipment h. 6 Radiation is classified as being either non-ionizing or ionizing.…”

“… 5 , 6 This indicates that providing MRI safety not only is an integral component for the imaging process, but it also is crucial for all involved parties, including MR personnel, patients, and health-care professionals. Ignoring this importance in the MRI, however, may pose severe risks to patients, staff, and equipment h. 6 Radiation is classified as being either non-ionizing or ionizing. The non-ionizing radiation is observed with lower frequency, lower energy, and longer wavelength whereas the ionizing radiation has been observed with high energy, high frequency and shorter wavelength.…”