Endure an MRI Scan

Many people are claustrophobic, and the thought of an MRI scan is enough to send them over the edge of fear and anxiety.

Steps

If available at your location, ask the receptionist to schedule you in the open MRI. It is not literally open, but the tube size is much bigger than the traditional one, which is very uncomfortable, even for someone without claustrophobia.
Ask for your family member to be with you holding your hand, or your foot during the exam. There is no reason why they cannot be there unless they are pregnant or have metal implants in their body such as a pacemaker or aneurysm clips.
Bring a CD or tape with you of your favorite music or recording to listen to.
If you don't have music, ask the MRI staff to provide you with a set of headphones and the radio station of your choice. Normally, only FM stations are available in an MRI suite.
Ask for a washcloth to set over your eyes before you begin.
Ask the technologist to talk to you between each set of pictures and keep you updated on how you are doing and how much time is left.
Think of someplace other than where you are at.

Tips

Some things to think about while you are in the scanner are: Your kids and how much you love them, Prayer - talking with God throughout the exam has helped many people. Do your grocery list in your head. Plan a function that makes you happy in your head and then do it when you are done!
Arrive Drowsy. Then just try to nap. You'll drift away and be done before you know it.

Warnings

Don't be afraid to ask for any of the above items. Don't let the technologist tell you to "Just Relax" because if you could, you already would. Be strong and demand the care and compassion that you are entitled by your health care facility and staff.
An MRI scan can be very loud. The technologist should give you ear plugs, use them and make sure they are well placed. Don't be surprised when all sorts of loud, strange sounds start coming right around you head.