We had a very confused patient with a history of aggression scheduled for an MRI under sedation. During prior attempts to complete the scan, the patient refused and became irate.

The patient’s medical team stressed the importance of the MRI given the extreme and recent change in the patient’s mental status and demeanor. The exam was scheduled for the evening, as a consent and a temporary detainment order had been obtained.

The patient arrived for the scan fully dressed in street clothes and without an IV. She became very agitated but Mary Ann stepped up. She made the patient feel at ease, tailored her care to help the patient understand, and worked to prepare her. She was so reassuring, the patient did not require sedation. Mary Ann stayed in the room with the patient for over 30 minutes to help her get through the exam.

Mary Ann developed such trust that the patient allowed her to place an IV when prior attempts had failed. Mary Ann learned that the patient had a CT scan scheduled after the MRI. She coordinated with CT and escorted the patient there, walking hand-in-hand. Mary Ann’s efforts helped the patient complete both scans while making her feel safe and comfortable. She reassured and calmed the patient enough that she was smiling and laughing. She turned what could have been a very frightening experience into one that the patient enjoyed while also providing her with the care she needed.