Encephalon Mri in 4-12 Years Old Children: How Pain, Fear and Sadness Regulation Affect MRI Image Quality

Abstract

Magnetic Resonance Imaging is often difficult to conduct, especially in children, because of restricted space, forced immobility, and loud noises. Providing children with adequate and age-appropriate information about the procedurecould reduce the use of anesthesia, the time and cost necessary . This research investigated the emotional regulation skills of children when provided with an information and orientation task before the examination. Analogical scales were used to measure the levels of fear, pleasure, and pain felt by 60 children who were waiting for a brain magnetic Resonance in two hospitals in Milan . Data collection took place at three different junctures; upon children's arrival at the hospital, following their preparation for this experience, and after the examination. Results showed that preparing children for the procedure helped to reduce anxiety and provided a space for them to externalize and self-regulate their emotional experiences. To combine the information strategy with the lived experiences allows the patient to anticipate the examination and to experience it in a simulation context, thus coming to the real examination more prepared and less emotionally activated. Preparation has a positive effect on children of all ages, particularly 4- to 7-year-old's. Moreover, fear regulation is associated with improved Magnetic resonance quality.

Keywords: Magnetic Resonance Imaging; children’ Well-being; emotional Regulation; emotions; paediatric Patients; well-being.