Certain fabrics may contain what components that can pose a risk during an MRI exam?

The correct answer highlights a significant safety concern related to MRI examinations. Certain fabrics may contain metallic fibers that can pose a risk during an MRI due to their ferromagnetic properties. These metallic fibers can become magnetized when exposed to the strong magnetic fields of an MRI machine, leading to potential hazards. If they are magnetic, they may move or heat up, potentially causing burns or other injuries to the patient.

Metallic fibers can also compromise the quality of the MRI images by creating artifacts or distortions. This can interfere with diagnostic accuracy, potentially leading to misinterpretations of the scan. Therefore, being aware of fabrics containing metallic components is crucial for ensuring the safety of patients and the efficacy of the imaging process.

In contrast, while plastic and rubber components may raise concerns regarding heat generation or material degradation, they do not present the same immediate risks related to magnetism that metallic components do. Additionally, cotton fibers primarily pose no significant hazards in an MRI environment regarding magnetic interference; they are generally safe, though they may absorb moisture, which is not a primary concern.