Abstract
Purpose To investigate the influence of auditory stimuli on patient comfort levels during magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, with particular emphasis on indicators of distress, duration of patient positioning, and utilization of emergency signaling devices.
Method An integrative literature review was undertaken utilizing peer-reviewed research articles sourced from journals within the fields of radiology, music therapy, and clinical practice. A comprehensive search was conducted across databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and Oxford Academic employing keywords including MR anxiety, music therapy, and patient comfort.
Results The body of literature consistently indicated that auditory stimuli significantly mitigate patient anxiety and distress in the context of MR procedures.
Discussion Music serves as both a cognitive diversion and a physiological modulator, leading to attenuated stress responses and enhanced patient tolerance. The variability observed in study methodologies and intervention strategies underscored the necessity for the establishment of standardized protocols. The findings indicated that music is an effective nonpharmacological intervention for reducing patient distress during MR procedures by serving as both a cognitive distraction and a modulator of physiological stress responses. The use of music is consistently associated with decreased anxiety, improved patient comfort, and enhanced tolerance of the MR environment.
Conclusion Music represents a viable, cost-effective intervention that improved patient comfort and has the potential to enhance the efficiency of MR workflows. Further investigation is warranted to quantify operational outcomes and standardize implementation methodologies.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.52519/00277
Graduation Date
Summer 8-7-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Radiologic Science
Program
The School of Health Professions
Faculty Advisor
Kevin R. Clark
Committee Member
Jessyca B. Wagner
Director, Graduate Program
William A. Undie
Dean
Kimberly Hoggatt Krumwiede
Recommended Citation
Yan, H. Impact of Music on Patient Comfort During MR Scans: A Literature Review. [thesis]. University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; 2026. https://doi.org/10.52519/00277
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