Article: They will help soothe you during the procedure by maintaining physical contact (holding your hand or touching foot). Be sure to bring someone who does not have a medical condition (pregnancy or metal implants in their body such as a pacemaker or aneurysm clip) that would prevent them from being in the imaging room. If friends or family members are unavailable, the hospital or imaging facility may supply a staff member to stay in the scan room with you. Communicate with the your friend/family member and the support staff during the procedure. This will help you feel more at ease and distract you during the procedure. There are speakers in the machine, as well as a call button or squeeze ball you can press or squeeze to communicate with the staff. With your health provider, discuss the possibility of taking a mild sedative before the procedure. Patients often find these types of medications relaxing and helpful in limiting anxiety. A prescription for the sedative will be required before the date of the appointment. Be sure to talk with your pharmacist about the medication and its side effects before the appointment. Because sedatives can make you tired or groggy, be sure to get a friend or family member to drive you to your appointment. Some imaging centers offer free transportation so be sure to make arrangements with the facility before your visit. Complete any important paperwork ahead of time due to the limiting effects of sedatives. Consulting with a mental health professional may help alleviate your fears by addressing the underlying feelings and emotions. Your mental health provider may recommend practices or techniques designed to target the root causes of your anxiety.

What is a summary?
Bring a friend or family member for support. Take a sedative. Contact a mental health professional.