Patient Awake While Scanned (PAWS) MRI Program

Our Patient Awake While Scanned (PAWS) MRI Program empowers children to complete their scan without anesthesia. Since its creation in 2013, the program has helped over 2,000 children and adolescents with various medical conditions and maintained a success rate of 94 percent or higher.

The PAWS Program includes the following Certified Child Life Specialist-provided services:

• An assessment phone call with you to discuss scan details and to learn more about your child
• Advice and tips on how to prepare your child prior to an MRI
• Customized preparation and support on the day of the MRI. We include exploration (seeing, hearing, touching) of medical equipment used so your child will know what to expect.
• Individualized coping plan, which may include watching a movie with special goggles or listening to music

One caregiver may stay with your child during the MRI.

If you are interested in having your child participate in the PAWS program, ask your child’s doctor to request it when ordering the MRI.

For more information, email a PAWS Program child life specialist.