How to Prepare for an MRI: A Patient Guide

At Independent Physicians Medical Center (IPMC) in Northeast Philadelphia, we offer advanced MRI imaging in a comfortable outpatient setting so you can feel prepared and informed every step of the way.

Minimal Preparation Is Usually Required

For most MRI exams, there’s very little preparation needed. In many cases, you can continue to:

• Eat and drink normally
• Take your prescribed medications as usual, unless your provider gives specific instructions to the contrary.

However, certain types of scans—such as those involving the abdomen, pelvis, or contrast dye—may require additional steps. If fasting is needed, your doctor will tell you how many hours before the exam to avoid food and drinks.

Important Things to Tell Your Doctor Before Your MRI

Before your appointment, inform your physician or technologist if you:

• Are pregnant or may be pregnant
• Have metal implants, pacemakers, or medical devices
• Have a history of working with metal or metal particles in your eye
• Have claustrophobia or anxiety about enclosed spaces

MRI uses a very strong magnet, and certain metallic objects or devices can interfere with the scan or pose safety risks. Being upfront about these details helps keep your exam safe and effective.

What to Bring and Wear

Here’s how to make your visit smoother:

Clothing

Wear loose, comfortable clothes without metal zippers, snaps, or buttons. You may be asked to change into a gown before the scan.

Remove Metal Objects

Before entering the MRI room, you’ll need to remove:

• Jewelry, watches, and piercings
• Hairpins and eyeglasses
• Hearing aids or dentures
• Wallets, credit cards, and keys

Metal objects can interfere with the magnetic field and the quality of the images.

Health Information

Bring your ID, insurance details, and a list of current medications. Be ready to complete a brief health questionnaire about implants or medical conditions.

What Happens During the MRI Scan

On the day of your appointment:

1. A trained technologist will greet you and review your information.
2. You’ll change into a gown and store your belongings.
3. You’ll lie on a padded table that slides into the MRI machine.
4. During the scan, you must remain still to ensure clear images.
5. The machine may make loud tapping or knocking noises, and ear protection may be provided.

The scan typically lasts 20–60 minutes, depending on the area being imaged. If contrast dye is used to enhance the images, it may be administered through an IV.

After the MRI

There’s usually no recovery time needed after an MRI. You can go back to your normal activities right away—unless your doctor advises otherwise. If you received a sedative for anxiety or comfort, plan to have someone accompany you home.

Your MRI images will be reviewed by a radiologist, and results are typically sent to your referring doctor soon after. This helps your provider make informed decisions about your care and treatment.