The MR Safety Tech (MRST): Bridging the Gap between the Remote MR Technologist and the Patient
This webinar invites the attendee to understand the new role of the MR Safety Tech (MRST) and how it fits into a highly functional MRI facility, whether inpatient or outpatient. Many people working in the MRI environment daily are aware of the staffing shortages, lack of adequate training, shortage of expertise when it comes to certain exam types, and many times, just the access to any exam at all. Some facilities have had to close their doors due to staffing issues. The time is not in the future. The time is now. MRSTs are currently being certified and utilized as a direct interface with the patient. They greet, screen, change, and prepare the patient for the exam they are about to have. The MRST is in constant communication and takes direct orders from the MR Technologist. This all occurs while all decision making is made by either the MR Technologist, who may be in the next building or 2,000 miles away. If they cannot make the determination, the MR Technologist then communicates with the MR Safety Officer (MRSO), or supervising MR Medical Director (MRMD) or physician for that patient while they are in the Radiology department. If all these steps are followed, and the other standard operating procedures of the facility are met along with state-led laws and regulations, then the role allows for a much safer MR environment for the patient. The MRST concentrates on patient safety, the MR Technologist focuses on acquiring the best image quality possible in the shortest time possible, and the MR Safety Officer is in place to vet all implants and devices either prior to the patient’s arrival or when identified during the screening process. With the implementation of the educated MR Safety Tech we will reduce accidents, increase access, and improve the overall patient care cycle while they are in the care of MRI.
- The role and responsibilities of the MR Safety Tech (MRST)
- Certification and training pathways for the MR Safety Tech
- The working relationship between the MRST, MR Technologist, MRSO, and MRMD
- Scope of practice for the MR Safety Tech
- State and facility limitations: applicable laws and policies
Kristan Harrington has dedicated her career to the field of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) since 1994. Her professional journey began as an MRI Technologist at Emory University, where she later transitioned into roles as an Educator and National Manager for Philips Healthcare. She held a faculty position at Emory University School of Medicine, where she led the MRI Bachelor's Program. Additionally, she served as an adjunct faculty member at Rush University in Chicago, Illinois. Kristan is the owner of T2Star Radiology Solutions, LLC, where she specializes in risk mitigation strategies at facilities to enhance the safety of the MRI environment for all individuals in the MRI setting. She is an accomplished speaker, presenting at conferences on a wide range of MRI topics, with a particular emphasis on MRI Safety. She does all of this while continuing to work at the hospital as needed to maintain her skills. In recognition of her expertise, she has been appointed as the Secretary Treasurer of the International Board of MR Safety. She also holds the esteemed position of Chair of the MR Safety Officer Exam Specification Committee.