Preparing for Your MRI

It’s natural to have questions about how you should prepare for your MRI scan. We’ll work with you to ensure you are ready in advance for your visit.

Department of Radiology, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
2014 Washington Street
Newton, MA 02462
Phone: 617-243-6600

Claustrophobia

We often work with patients who suffer from claustrophobia. We encourage you to come before your appointment to tour our facility and become better acquainted with our MRI scanning process.

Our MRI suite includes satellite radio to help you relax during your scan. You can have a friend or family member accompany you into the exam room during your test. All visitors must be screened for internal or external metal prior to the start of your MRI scan.

Many patients request a mild sedative medication from their referring doctor before their appointment and arrange for a responsible adult to drive them home after their test.

MRI Scans for Children and Teens

We have specialty radiologists and a conscious-sedation program to meet the unique needs of children and teens who need MRI scans. You can accompany your child into the MRI scan room and remain with him or her during the test.

Medications

Continue taking all your medications prescribed by your doctor before your MRI exam. You should let your MRI technologist know what medications you’ve taken before your test.

Food and Drink

One of the members of our MRI Department will give you personalized instructions about eating and/or drinking before your scan.

When to Arrive for Your MRI Scan

Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled MRI appointment. This allows time for you to:
Answer medical history questions
Ask any questions of your MRI technologist
Change clothes if necessary
Complete any needed paperwork

Make sure to bring your insurance cards and any required insurance forms to your appointment.

What to Wear to Your MRI Appointment

You should dress in loose-fitting, comfortable clothes, such as a sweatshirt and pants without metal snaps or zippers. Please leave all valuables at home. You will need to remove the following objects and place them in a safe location outside the MRI scan room:

• Coins
• Credit cards
• Dentures
• Glasses
• Hairpins
• Hearing aids
• Jewelry
• Keys
• Other metal or metallic objects

We will provide you with a secure clothing locker during your MRI scan.

Please do not wear cosmetics to your scan, as many brands contain metal.