Cynthia needs to be scheduled for an MRI of her head and neck. You are responsible for scheduling the test
and explaining the procedure to the patient. After you have explained the procedure to Cynthia, she tells you
she is extremely claustrophobic and doesn't think she can have the MRI.

1. What special preparation instructions should be given to the patient?

2. To whom should you relay the information regarding the patient's claustrophobia?

3. What could be done to help combat the claustrophobia?


A 55-year-old male calls the office to say that he had a barium enema this morning. He says that he is nause-
ated, bloated, and constipated and wants to know what he should do.

1. Who will determine how to treat the patient's complaint?

2. Why can't you tell the patient what he should do about his situation?