Course Description
A number of factors have contributed to the increased demand and utilization of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a diagnostic tool specifically amongst the pediatric patient population. As technology advances and image quality follows, the exquisite soft-tissue contrast offered distinctively by MRI carries heightened diagnostic value when imaging smaller anatomical structures. Advances have decreased scan times, making MRI a more practical tool for patients less prone to remain still for longer periods of time. Advanced imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography (PET) can also offer excellent image quality, but exposes children to ionizing radiation at an age of rapid cell division. This course will outline specific challenges in imaging pediatric patients as well as strategies and techniques to achieve a successful study based on the patient's age and physical and cognitive abilities. The use of a mock MRI and its benefits for younger pediatric patients will be discussed. Techniques to avoid using general anesthesia to achieve a successful study will be reviewed as well as protocols and imaging techniques based on the patient's age, weight, and height. The advantages and disadvantages of scanner field strengths versus scan time will be weighed, and various pulse sequences, breath-holding techniques, slice sizes, and nomenclature and protocols across multiple MRI equipment brands will be outlined.

Learning Objectives
After completing this course, the participant should be able to:

• IDENTIFY ways to overcome pediatric-specific challenges and safety concerns with MRI scanning.
• OUTLINE the benefits of sedation as well as the downside and risks which necessitates strategies to avoid sedation.
• RECALL the significance of age-appropriate communication and preparation in decreasing the need for sedation.
• IDENTIFY the importance of child life specialists while acknowledging their role in preparing pediatric patients for a mock MRI.
• EXPLAIN the scanning techniques used to alleviate motion and accelerate acquisition time in pediatric MRI.
• DISTINGUISH the tradeoffs between various pulse sequences that are beneficial in pediatric MRI.

 

Categories: MRI, Professional Development/Patient Care Quality

In order to receive CE credit, you must first complete the activity content. When completed, go to the "Take CE Test!" link to access the post-test.

Submit the completed answers to determine if you have passed the post-test assessment. You must answer 15 out of 20 questions correctly to receive the CE credit. You will have no more than 3 attempts to successfully complete the post-test.

Participants successfully completing the activity content and passing the post-test will receive 2.0 ARRT Category A credits.

Approved by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists for ARRT Category A credit.

Approved by the state of Florida for ARRT Category A credit.

Texas direct credit.

This activity may be available in multiple formats or from different sponsors. ARRT does not allow CE activities such as Internet courses, home study programs, or directed readings to be repeated for CE credit in the same biennium.

Category	Content Area	Credits
Magnetic Resonance	Image Production	0.5
Magnetic Resonance	Patient Care	0.5
Magnetic Resonance	Procedures	0.75
Magnetic Resonance	Safety	0.25
Radiologist Assistant	Patient Care	0.25

Category	Subcategory	Credits
Magnetic Resonance	Body	0.25
Magnetic Resonance	Data Acquisition, Processing, and Storage	0.25
Magnetic Resonance	MRI Screening and Safety	0.25
Magnetic Resonance	Musculoskeletal	0.25
Magnetic Resonance	Neurological	0.25
Magnetic Resonance	Patient Interactions and Management	0.5
Magnetic Resonance	Sequence Parameters and Options	0.25
Radiologist Assistant	Pharmacology	0.25

Category	Credits
Digital	0
Fluoroscopy	0
Mammography	0