Is informed consent required for pregnant patients undergoing MRI according to ACR?

Informed consent for pregnant patients undergoing MRI is not a universally required practice according to the American College of Radiology (ACR). The ACR guidelines suggest that MRI can be performed on pregnant patients if deemed necessary for diagnosis and that the benefits of the procedure outweigh the potential risks. Since MRI does not involve ionizing radiation, it is generally considered safe during pregnancy, which contributes to the notion that formal consent is not always required in all situations.

However, it is important to note that while informed consent may not be mandated by ACR guidelines, it is still essential for clinicians to provide adequate information to the patient regarding the procedure and any potential risks or considerations. This allows for informed decision-making on the part of the patient.

In situations where patients have specific concerns, expressing interest in understanding the implications of the procedure, or a unique medical history, obtaining consent may still be beneficial. Thus, while ACR guidelines do not require informed consent for every pregnant patient undergoing an MRI, the context of the situation can guide the decision on whether to formally document consent.