MRI Assistant

About the role

The MRI Assistant supports the safe, efficient, and patient-centered operation of the MRI department by assisting MRI Technologists with patient preparation, workflow coordination, room turnover, equipment and supply readiness, and non-technical aspects of MRI examinations. Working under the direction of a qualified MRI Technologist, the MRI Assistant helps prepare patients for imaging, supports MRI safety screening processes, assists with patient transport and positioning, and maintains an organized and efficient clinical environment. This position may provide an entry point into the medical imaging field for individuals interested in pursuing future education and certification as an MRI Technologist.

Responsibilities

Patient Care and Preparation

• Greet patients and provide clear, professional information regarding the general MRI process and what they can expect during their visit.
• Confirm patient identity using established patient identification procedures.
• Assist patients with changing into appropriate attire and securing personal belongings.
• Ensure patients remove jewelry, removable medical devices, clothing, and other items that may contain metal before entering designated MRI-restricted areas.
• Assist with transporting patients to and from the MRI department, including patients using wheelchairs or stretchers.
• Assist patients with transfers to and from the MRI table in accordance with safe patient-handling practices.
• Assist the MRI Technologist with patient positioning and the placement of positioning aids or immobilization devices as directed.
• Provide hearing protection and other comfort measures, including blankets, pillows, and positioning support.
• Provide reassurance and supportive communication to patients experiencing anxiety, discomfort, pain, or claustrophobia.
• Observe patients for changes in condition and promptly communicate concerns to the MRI Technologist or other appropriate clinical personnel.

MRI Safety Support

• Facilitate completion of MRI safety screening documentation in accordance with department procedures.
• Collect and accurately document patient-reported information regarding implants, medical devices, previous surgeries, possible metallic foreign bodies, pregnancy status, and other potential MRI safety concerns.
• Immediately escalate any positive, unclear, or potentially contraindicated screening response to the MRI Technologist.
• Support compliance with established MRI safety zones and department access-control procedures.
• Help ensure patients, visitors, and staff remove prohibited metallic or ferromagnetic objects before entering restricted MRI areas.
• Monitor the environment for potential MRI safety concerns and immediately report identified risks to the MRI Technologist.
• Follow all facility MRI safety policies and procedures.
• The MRI Assistant does not independently determine whether a patient, implant, device, or other object is safe for the MRI environment. Final MRI safety clearance remains the responsibility of appropriately qualified clinical personnel.

MRI Suite and Equipment Support

• Prepare MRI rooms for scheduled examinations according to the direction of the MRI Technologist.
• Maintain adequate supplies of linens, positioning aids, hearing protection, coils, contrast-related supplies, and other department consumables.