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The new technology offerred at Thumb MRI features a spacious environment
that puts anxious and claustrophobic patients at
ease. This system has one of the widest openings
available in MRI. The Vantage magnet has been reduced
to the shortest distance in the industry. This allows
the patient's head to remain outside the gantry for
many procedures.
Instead of being surrounded by the noise of a jackhammer,
the patients only hear a gentle tapping. This softer
volume reduces patient anxiety and increases the
chances for a successful scan..
If you are anxious or claustrophobic the following
are ideas on how to work with your anxious feelings so you may be able to
complete your MRI:
Eliminate fear of the unknown. The
technologist will thoroughly explain the MRI procedure
so you will know what to expect. Patients are welcome to stop in to look
at the scanner prior to their
scheduled MRI.
Take someone in the room with you.
A family member or
friend may sit with you in the MRI room, however they will be screened for
metal implants and other safety concerns. There is no radiation with MRI so it
is safe for them to be in the MRI room. It may be comforting just knowing
someone is by your side.
Bring a favorite CD. We
have a relaxation system that allows patients to
listen to a CD. This may keep your mind focused on something else.
Talk to the
technologist. It's important that you tell the technologist what bothers
you. The technologist can offer a wash cloth to cover your eyes, an emergency
ball that when squeezed will alert the technologist that you want to come out
immediately, or additional cushions or supports so you are as comfortable as
possible for your test
Eliminate caffeine. These products release
adrenaline and this adds to the anxiety feelings. Reduce caffeine very
gradually over a period of two weeks so you experience no withdrawal
symptoms.
Reduce sugar-rich foods. They Indirectly re-activate
your adrenals. For the same reason it's recommended to eat small amounts of
food frequently and ensure you don't get hungry.
Sip water or eat
small amounts of fruit to keep your mouth moist. A dry mouth sends a "fear"
signal to the brain.
Use relaxing breathing methods. The panic
feelings is usually accompanied by mild to severe hyperventilation. The
breathing method will calm you.
Keep physically active. Exercise
such as swimming or brisk walking helps get rid of stress and physical
tension.
Monitor you self-talk to avoid too much negativity. some
negative thinking is understandable because it's an uncomfortable
situation.
Replace negative self-talk with affirmation. For
example, "one scan at a time, I can do this" the technologist will work with
you on this. They can keep you informed of how many scans and how long each one
will be.
Consider aromatherapy. Thumb MRI Center is willing to go
beyond traditional medicine to increase patient comfort. We offer cucumber and
lavender mists.
Sedation. This is a last resort and would be
given to you by your doctor. We do not allow sedation
of children because our facility is not set up to
monitor them. We are not able to prescribe sedation
on site to give patiens (Oral or IV). Your doctor,
for you to fill at a pharmacy, would give the prescription
to you. You should take it by your
doctor's instructions and have someone drive you
the day of the exam.
Some patients have asked, "Can I try the MRI without the sedation
then if I can't do it take my sedation and try again?" Unfortunately,
this is not possible in most cases because it takes about 20-30 minutes
for the
sedation to take effect and this would take us into
the next time slot where there would be another patient already scheduled.
Evaluate your pain
level. It is necessary for you to hold still for the MRI test. If
you are claustrophobic any pain you may have may increase your anxiety.
Talk to your
doctor if you feel pain medication will be needed
to complete the MRI.
Call us with questions. Please call us with any questions
you may have concerning your test especially if
you are anxious about the MRI test. We can be reached
toll free at 1-888-399-9469. |
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