• A Bolejko and P Hagell.
• Department of Translational Medicine, Department of Medical Imaging and Physiology, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Carl Bertil Laurells gata 9, 205 02, Malmö, Sweden. Electronic address: anetta.bolejko@med.lu.se.
• Radiography (Lond). 2021 Feb 1; 27 (1): 162-167.

IntroductionMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an important modality in diagnostics and treatment follow-up. However, MRI can be perceived as unpleasant even though the examination is non-invasive. Patients' knowledge of the MRI procedure is usually scarce, which may enhance patient anxiety at examination. We investigated the effects on anxiety and satisfaction with an information booklet on MRI compared to a placebo booklet delivered to adult patients prior to their first MRI examination.MethodsThis randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled trial included 197 patients. The intervention group (n = 95) received a booklet about MRI prior to the examination, whereas the control group (n = 102) received a placebo booklet of the same size and layout but containing general information. The State Trait Anxiety Inventory with supplementary questions from the Quality from the Patient's Perspective questionnaire were used as patient-reported outcome measures.ResultsAnxiety did not differ between the groups, either prior to MRI or during the examination, but those who received the placebo booklet were at higher risk of experiencing high anxiety prior to the MRI examination (odds ratio 2.64; P = 0.029). The intervention group was more satisfied with the information received (P = 0.044), and a majority of participants in both groups (≥87%) considered it important to obtain information on the MRI procedure.ConclusionWritten MRI information decreases the risk of high anxiety levels before MRI and improves patient satisfaction with the information. Further research is needed to investigate whether written information prior to MRI is beneficial not only from the perspective of the patient but may also be cost-effective.Implications For PracticeWritten MRI information prior to the examination is recommended in radiography care.Copyright © 2020 The College of Radiographers. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

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