Pilot Testing and Preliminary Evaluation of a Structured MRI Safety Knowledge Questionnaire Among Radiology Students: A Methodological Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides valuable diagnostic information without ionizing radiation; however, the static magnetic field, radiofrequency energy, cryogenic systems, and interactions with metallic objects and implants create important safety considerations. Structured MRI safety education therefore requires assessment instruments that are clear, relevant, and appropriate for the intended learner population.

Objective: To pilot-test a structured 35-item MRI safety knowledge questionnaire and evaluate its empirical performance, clarity, domain reliability, and suitability for use in a larger educational study.

Methods: A prospective methodological pilot study was conducted using a structured 35-item multiple-choice MRI safety questionnaire across six participating academic radiology centers in India. The instrument was organized into seven domains, with five questions per domain. Each correct response received one mark, yielding a maximum score of 35. Empirical data from 100 pilot participants (P001–P100) were extracted from the dataset (dataset.xlsx) and analyzed. Statistical metrics included mean  standard deviation (), median, interquartile range (), minimum–maximum values, item-level pass rates, domain-specific percentages, and age/gender demographic profiles.

Results: The analytical cohort comprised 100 radiology learners (mean age:  years, range:  years; 56% female, 44% male). Across the 35 knowledge items, the overall mean knowledge score was  out of 35 (), with a median of  (, range: ). Domain performance ranged from  (Domain 5: Emergency Procedures & Risk Management) to  (Domain 1: Physical Principles & Static Magnetic Field Safety). Item difficulty varied, with Q9 achieving the highest correct rate () and Q7 demonstrating the lowest ().

Conclusion: The 35-item MRI safety questionnaire demonstrates robust structural organization and provides an effective multidomain framework for evaluating core safety concepts among radiology students. The empirical pilot results validate the instrument's clarity, feasibility, and appropriateness for implementation in the full-scale multicenter study.