Planning an MR suite: What can be done to enhance safety?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), frequently touted as the "the safe modality," suffers from significant, and growing, numbers of preventable adverse events. Improvements in MR safety can result from enhancements to expected operational elements: training, screening, and patient-management protocols. Less frequently considered is the safety benefits that may be realized through smart design of MR facilities. Through conscientious and thorough prospective site planning involving MR staff and radiologists in the design process for MR physical facilities, MR providers can have a positive impact on improving safety as well as efficiency for the benefit of their patients, for ancillary healthcare workers, and for themselves.