When it comes to organising Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans for our little patients at Canberra Health Services, we have the system down pat to make it easier for them and their families.

MRI manager, Sam Wilson says Wednesday is their day dedicated to paediatric scans and the best way to do these is under one general anaesthetic.

‘When the wardsmen bring the little ones to us from Paediatric Day Stay, we do the MRI and then they return to the Day Stay unit.

‘Sometimes though, these patients need a CT scan, or an eye check, dental check, lumber puncture or ultrasound, so what we do is organise those multiple scans and procedures seamlessly so that the patient doesn’t have to go through multiple general anaesthetics,’ Sam said.

‘The system works well and it’s great for the kiddies and parents so that there are fewer interventions, and the bulk of the highly technical scanning work is done and dusted.

With Building 5 merely months away from opening, Sam and her team are champing at the bit to get in and work in their new clinical spaces.

‘I’m excited. It’s amazing. It’s beautiful. The equipment is brand new and the light, bright and colourful clinical spaces will make this an absolute pleasure to work in. Staff and patients are going to love it,’ Sam said.

However, there’s a body of work that must happen first, and it’s the paediatric MRI scenario testing.

Sam and her team will be timing the various patient movements for a number of different scenarios, mapping those pathways and making sure those times meet the patient’s needs and the clinical schedule.

‘It’s all about putting our patients first and delivering the exceptional health care upon which our teams pride themselves,’ Sam said.

‘And a few quick tips for parents if they’re bringing in a little one for a scan: No iPads allowed in (sorry kids) and no glitter, press stubs or zippers on clothes.

‘Safety is a priority with these state-of-the-art machines, and we will help you ensure your child is ready for any scans but if you can help with remembering those tips it will make things a lot faster and easier,’ Sam said.

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