Ethics and Professionalism in MRI

Heidi Veillette, BSc, RT(R)(MR)*

*Medical Writer, Veillette Communications; Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Address correspondence to: Heidi@VeilletteCommunications.com.

Disclosure statement: The author reports having no significant financial or advisory relationships with corporate organizations related to this activity.

ABSTRACT

Imaging assistants in magnetic resonance (IAMR) and radiologic technologists (RTs) play an essential role in delivering safe, ethical, and patient-centered care in everyday clinical practice. While strong technical skills are important for producing high-quality diagnostic images, imaging personnel must also show sound ethical judgment, understand their legal responsibilities, and uphold professional standards. Prioritizing patient safety, dignity, and respect while protecting their rights is fundamental to building trust and supporting high-quality care. Adhering to professional codes supports ethical decision-making and accountability, while effective communication helps reduce anxiety and enhance the patient experience. This course provides IAMRs and RTs with a practical overview of the ethical, legal, and professional responsibilities that are essential to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) practice. Participants will review core ethical principles and patients' rights, including informed consent, confidentiality, and privacy. Professional accountability will be explored through a discussion of established ethical and professional standards, along with common legal risks encountered in the MRI environment. The course concludes by offering practical strategies for enhancing ethical communication with anxious or vulnerable patients, including those facing language, cultural, cognitive or age-related challenges. By strengthening these skills, all imaging professionals will be able to provide enhanced ethical patient care and safety, build trust, and contribute to a respectful and supportive imaging experience.