New paediatric MRI results show new program is more than childs play
A new program led by Southern Health’s Play Education department has seen a 95 per cent success rate with children having an MRI without a general anesthetic. Head of Southern Health Play Education, Paula Matthews said the trial project was started in August involving 60 children at Monash Children’s.We developed a program to assist children aged between 4 and 10 years who are presently on a waiting list to have an MRI under general anesthetic. The program involved simulating the MRI experience from the viewpoint of a child,” Ms Matthews explained.
“Out of the 52 children who have participated 48 have been successful in having an MRI without anesthetic. These children have had the waiting period for their MRI greatly reduced and have avoided any effects of having anesthetic. They, along with their parents, have approached their MRI with confidence.”
Southern Health’s Director of Paediatric Imaging, Professor Michael Ditchfield said discussions were underway for a permanent child therapist to be engaged in paediatric patients within the imaging department.
“Not only do we have waiting times reduced with more children getting access to vital health services, there is less risk to the children and they actually enjoy themselves while they are having the test,” Professor Ditchfield said.