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Behavior analysis of motion control for pediatric neuroimaging
K J Slifer1, M F Cataldo, M D Cataldo
1Department of Behavioral Psychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland 21205.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Simulated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans show that environmental changes reduce patient movement. Operant conditioning techniques are essential for minimizing movement sufficiently to avoid sedation during actual MRI procedures.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Pediatric Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a valuable diagnostic tool.
- Patient uncooperativeness, particularly in children, can necessitate sedation during MRI.
- Sedation carries inherent risks and increases procedural complexity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate methods for reducing patient movement during simulated MRI scans in children.
- To assess the efficacy of environmental modifications and operant conditioning on movement inhibition.
Main Methods:
- Four healthy children underwent simulated MRI scans.
- Environmental factors within the imaging setting were systematically altered.
- Operant conditioning principles were applied to encourage movement inhibition.
Main Results:
- Changes to the imaging environment demonstrated a capacity to decrease patient movement.
- Operant conditioning contingencies proved necessary to achieve significant movement reduction.
- Sufficient movement reduction, enabling MRI without sedation, was achieved in most participants using these methods.
Conclusions:
- Environmental adjustments can positively influence patient behavior during MRI.
- Operant conditioning is a critical intervention for managing movement in pediatric MRI.
- Behavioral strategies offer a viable alternative to sedation for pediatric MRI patients.