Sedation failures in children undergoing MRI and CT: is temperament a factor?

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between temperament and sedation failure during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT). One hundred and two children (aged 3-7 years) who underwent MRI or CT with or without sedation were studied. Demographics, sedatives administered, efficacy of sedation, and adverse events were recorded. Parents completed the Behavioural Style Questionnaire for 3-7 years olds during their wait. Eight children underwent MRI successfully without sedation, 83 were successfully sedated, and 11 procedures were aborted. Children whose sedation failed were less adaptable than children whose sedation was successful (P =0.04). Children who underwent MRI without sedation were more persistent than children who were sedated (P =0.05), and more persistent and less active than those whose sedation failed (P =0.02 and 0.03, respectively). The child's underlying temperament may contribute to sedation outcomes during MRI and CT. A presedation assessment of the child's temperament may therefore assist in decisions regarding sedation.

Brain Magnetic Resonance Image Quality Initiative for Pediatric Neurological Examinations: Sedated versus Nonsedated Children

“…The children's temperament was evaluated during this initial assessment to help predict the feasibility of cooperation. This was based on the MRI nurses' experiences using CAM and a study reported by VoepelLewis, Malviya, Prochaska, & Tait (2000) who described temperament and coping strategies. Teaching the child and family how to use coping strategies along with the use of diversion activities were used as valuable tools in achieving the stillness required for a quality study (Huth, Kuiken, & Broome, 2006).…”

Neuroimaging in a Three-Year-Old Girl — MRI without Anesthesia: Easier Than One Thinks

“…In 102 patients under seven years just eight patients with less activity and more patience passed MRI without the need for anesthesia 10 . In case of seriously ill or psychiatric children the use of sedation or GA is more comfortable for patients and their parents.…”

O efeito da "sedação multifásica" no exame de tomografia computadorizada e ressonância magnética em crianças, pais e anestesiologistas

“…Children frequently require sedation in order to be cooperative and immobile for imaging modalities in radiology units, namely the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT) procedures [1][2][3][4][5][6] . Moreover, imaging procedures that are not applied under adequate sedation necessitates repetition of the procedure, resulting in a significant loss of revenue to the institution, lost work time and, perhaps most importantly, delayed diagnosis.…”