Radiologic Technologist Practice Exam 2025 - Free Radiology Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct answer reflects the reality that noise generated during MRI scans can significantly impact both patient comfort and the quality of the imaging signals. MRI machines create loud sounds during operation, mostly due to the vibrations of the gradient coils, which are essential for acquiring images. This noise can cause anxiety in patients, leading to discomfort or restlessness, which can affect their ability to remain still during the procedure.

Additionally, excessive noise can cause issues with communication between the technologist and the patient, making it difficult to provide reassurance or instructions. In some cases, if a patient is uncomfortable due to noise, it may lead to movement that compromises the quality of the images obtained during the scan. Therefore, alleviating noise can improve not only patient comfort but also the overall success of the imaging procedure.

While distractions might help patients cope with the noise, the primary impact is that the sound itself can lead to negative experiences and complications during MRI scanning.