MRI exam instructions
Some MRI exams may require special instructions and will be advised at the time you book your appointment. Wear something that is comfortable and easy to remove. Please do not wear anything with metal for the exam such as clothing with zippers or snaps. You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for 4 hours prior to the exam.
If you have any type of electrical, mechanical, or surgical implant within you, please notify our schedulers at the time your appointment is made and also the staff when checking in.
The Day of your exam
If you have been given a copy of the prescription for your examination, it is important that you bring it with you on the day of your appointment. After the registration process, you will be greeted by the technologist and escorted to the changing area. You will be asked to remove and place your electronic devices, wallet, ATM/credit cards, watch, jewelry, belt, hairpins, eyeglasses, hearing aid, or any removable dental work into the provided lockers.
Some MRI examinations require the use of contrast material, also known as "x-ray dye." If contrast is required, a skilled technologist will start an intravenous (I.V.), usually in the arm or hand, prior to the examination.
Before the procedure the technologist will go over some questions and explain the exam to you. You must lie still during the scan and will be able to communicate with the technologist through the microphones inside the machine. Depending on the study you are having, the exam can take anywhere from 20 minutes to one hour.
You should inform the technologist of:
If you have a cardiac pacemaker
If you have metal objects in your body
If you are pregnant
If you are claustrophobic
MRI Exam Instructions
