Preparing For Your Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Test

Here are some tips for getting your child ready for their MRI test at East Tennessee Children's Hospital

What to expect before the scan?

Your child will need to lie very still while the scan is being done. This may mean that your child will need sedation. One of our scheduling nurses will call you to schedule your appointment and discuss if sedation will be required for your child.

Please inform the nurse scheduler if your child has any implanted devices.

Remove all hair accessories and jewelry before the scan. If piercing removal is not possible, contact the MRI department at 865-541-8116 or the MRI RN scheduler at 865-541-8398 about options or possibly rescheduling.

Sometimes an MRI order requires contrast. If your MRI is contrasted it will be administered through an IV.

If you are having an MRI of your abdomen-including an MRE/MRCP, you will not be able to eat or drink 6 hours prior to your appointment time. All other MRIS do not have restrictions.

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What to expect during the scan?

The MRI machine is a large magnet so no metal can go into the room. Your child will be required to change into a gown or scrubs.

Once in the room, your child will be placed on a special bed that will slide them into a donut shaped scanner. They will stay inside the donut for the entire duration of the scan.

An MRI can last between 20 to 120 minutes, depending on the order. We have Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube for viewing during the MRI. Your child can choose whatever they prefer to watch/listen to during a non sedated MRI.

A staff member will walk your child back to you once their non-sedated MRI scan is completed.

What to expect after the scan?

If your child has not been sedated, they may resume all normal activities.

Your ordering doctor should contact you with the results. You may also access the results through the patient Patient Portal within 24-48 hours after your test.

Who can I call with questions?

If you have any questions, please call or text 865-541-8116 to speak with a member of the Radiology or Sedation team.

Someone from our Radiology team will call or text to confirm your appointment and answer any questions you may have regarding your appointment. If you have any questions, please contact us at 865-541-8116.

You can also see these instructions and more information here about Imaging and Radiology at East Tennessee Children's Hospital.