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Enhancing Pediatric Magnetic Resonance Imaging Preparation: A Qualitative Study of Current Practices and the Role of
Beth P Johnson1,2,3, Alice Garrick1, Katherine A Lawrence1
1School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Insights
Preparing children for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using virtual reality (VR) enhances their confidence and sense of agency. This approach improves MRI preparation, potentially increasing access to pediatric healthcare.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric healthcare
- Medical imaging technology
- Child psychology
Background:
- Pediatric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) preparation often requires sedation, limiting access to care.
- Virtual reality (VR) integration into MRI preparation may reduce sedation needs.
- Understanding the child's preparation process is crucial for successful diagnostic scans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To qualitatively describe the process of preparing children for MRI in a tertiary healthcare setting.
- To explore the roles of healthcare workers, parents, and VR in successful MRI preparation.
- To identify factors contributing to high-quality diagnostic scans for pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- 29 participants (13 children, 13 caregivers, 3 health professionals) were involved.
- Video recordings of routine MRI preparation, including VR, were analyzed.
- Interpretive description methodology and attachment theory framework were used.
Main Results:
- Child MRI preparation strategies supported self-efficacy and a sense of agency.
- Child life therapists and caregivers used play, collaboration, and practice to build confidence.
- VR tools boosted children's agency, confidence, and provided educational opportunities.
Conclusions:
- MRI preparation methods foster attachment by enhancing child self-efficacy and agency.
- VR serves as a platform for MRI education and building trust in medical settings.
- VR has potential utility in improving pediatric MRI access in underserved areas.
Background And Objectives:
How children prepare for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help reduce the need for sedation and improve access to pediatric health care. Embedding virtual reality (VR) tools within routine preparation for MRI may support this process. The aim of this study was to qualitatively describe the process of preparing a child for MRI in a tertiary health care setting. We sought to understand the roles of health care workers, parents, and special equipment, such as VR, in preparing children for a successful and a high-quality diagnostic scan.
Patients And Methods:
There were 29 participants (13 children, 13 caregivers, and 3 health professionals). Children scheduled for clinically indicated noncontrast head MRI scans were recorded on video throughout routine MRI preparation with their parents and health care professionals, with VR included as part of standard care. Interviews with children and caregivers were completed on arrival, immediately before MRI, and post MRI. Using an interpretive description methodology, we integrated coded data from the audio and video to identify themes within an attachment theory framework.
Results:
Our qualitative analysis of child MRI preparation strategies revealed 2 main categories: (1) strategies that support self-efficacy and (2) a sense of agency. Strategies employed by child life therapists and caregivers included providing opportunities for accomplishment, practicing sensations, and fostering relational connections through play and collaboration. VR tools enhanced the children's sense of agency and confidence and offer additional educational and coaching possibilities.
Conclusions:
MRI preparation methods emphasized attachment between child, caregiver, staff, and MR environment by enhancing the child's self-efficacy and sense of agency. VR offers a platform for MR education and building trust between the child, staff, and MRI setting, with potential utility in underserved medical settings.
