Multi-Sensory Approach to Alleviate MRI Claustrophobia

Motivation: Claustrophobia affects 12.5% of the population, leading to incomplete MRI scans, patient distress, and delayed diagnoses. Current solutions are often costly or ineffective, stressing the need for a more accessible, holistic intervention. Goal(s): To develop a cost-effective resolution to reduce MRI-related claustrophobia and improve patient comfort and scan effectiveness. Approach: Integrate sight (dynamic tape stripes), taste (mint), smell (lavender), and touch (MRI-compatible fidget toys) to create a calming MRI environment. Conduct pilot testing and refinement based on patient feedback. Results: This project is in the planning stage. We are in contact with tape suppliers and are preparing for prototyping and pilot testing. Impact: This multi-sensory approach enhances patient comfort during MRI scans, reduces anxiety-related cancellations, and improves diagnostic accuracy. It offers a scalable, cost-effective solution that can be widely implemented across all clinical settings, benefiting patients and clinicians.