Sedation with anesthetic medication is often required to perform magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans in young children. However, sedation involves risks, particularly respiratory depression. Therefore, it is crucial to explore methods enabling young children to undergo MRI scans without sedation. Additionally, developing MRI preparation techniques for young children that are feasible in general hospitals—without specialized staff or equipment—has become increasingly desirable.

This study aimed to develop a straightforward preparation method for pediatric MRI scans and evaluate its effectiveness.

We prospectively enrolled 43 children ages 4–6 years (mean age, 5.8 years) who were scheduled for MRI scans at five general hospitals. Patients requiring urgent MRI scans were excluded from the study. We provided simple preparations created by child life specialists to help children and guardians easily understand MRI scans. A historical control group comprised 44 consecutive children, ages 4–6 years, who had undergone MRI scans before this preparatory intervention was introduced.

Following the introduction of the preparation, a significantly higher percentage of patients attempted MRI scans without sedation than historical controls (60.5% vs. 15.9%, P < 0.001). Additionally, the success rate of performing MRI without sedation increased markedly (53.5% vs. 13.6%, P < 0.001).

Introducing the simple preparation allowed for more successful non-sedated MRI scans in children ages 4–6 years. This preparation may contribute to higher rates of successful non-sedated MRIs among children in general hospitals, even in settings lacking specialized staff or equipment.