Children's and Parent's Perceptions of a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Examination

The aim of this study was to describe children's and parents' perceptions after a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination. Semistructured interviews with eight children and eight parents were conducted. The interviews were analyzed using a phenomenographical approach. Both children and parents perceived a sense of security when they received preparation/information. The children perceived that it was positive to have their parents present. Children and parents also felt a sense of security from the positive attitude of the health professionals. They perceived anxiety if they felt that the preparation/information they were given was insufficient. The MRI scanner caused anxiety because of its size, design, and sound, and they were anxious about the risk of a failed examination. The children talked much about the difficulty of lying still. The parents perceived that more information about the MRI examination should be offered. By having the knowledge of how children and their parents perceive an MRI examination could help and guide health professionals for better understanding and high-quality care.