An MRI stretcher must support safe, practical patient movement while meeting the requirements of a powerful magnetic environment. A conventional hospital gurney can include ferromagnetic steel components that create a projectile risk near the magnet. MR Conditional stretchers are built and labeled for MRI use, but facilities must confirm the exact MR designation and the manufacturer’s conditions for the specific model, accessories and scanner.
Non-ferrous or non-magnetic construction is central to an MRI stretcher’s design. Depending on the model, frames and components may use aluminum, stainless steel, polymers or other materials selected for the intended MRI environment. “Non-magnetic” is not itself a complete safety designation: an MR Conditional product can be used only within its documented parameters, including applicable field strength and other conditions. Before ordering, compare the model’s documentation with the scanner’s specifications and your Zone III/IV policy. Our MR Conditional guide explains why those conditions must be read rather than assumed.
Height adjustment helps staff align the stretcher with transfer surfaces and reduce handling strain. Review the available height range, the operating mechanism and whether it works reliably with your patient-transfer workflow. Rail design, mattress or pad type, and caster configuration also affect safety and comfort. Raised rails can help provide patient support during transport; a suitable pad can improve comfort during waits and transfers; and smooth-rolling casters with dependable locks help staff keep the stretcher controlled when parked or positioned. Always follow the product instructions and local protocol for rails, brakes and transfers.
Choose capacity and dimensions for the patients you actually serve. Standard-capacity models may meet routine needs, while bariatric options can provide a higher published capacity and different surface or width requirements. Assess door clearance, turns, room layout and elevator access as well as the stretcher’s width and overall length. A stretcher is one part of a coordinated pathway: combine it with MRI Patient Transport Equipment, appropriate Patient Comfort Products and clearly placed MRI safety signs to help maintain controlled access and consistent movement through the suite.
Choosing an MRI Stretcher
Begin with the patient population and the approved MRI environment. Select a model with a published patient capacity, surface dimensions and rail configuration suited to routine and higher-acuity transfers; do not use a bariatric designation as a substitute for reviewing the stated capacity. Next, verify the model-specific MR Safe or MR Conditional information, including permitted field strength and any limitations on accessories, placement or use. The MRI safety officer should approve the final configuration for the site.
Height and transfer workflow:
Compare the adjustment range with the table, wheelchair and transfer surfaces your team uses. Evaluate how the mechanism is operated and locked.
Rails and restraint process:
Select rail options that support your patient-safety policy, then train staff on when they should be raised, lowered and checked.
Comfort and cleanability:
Review mattress or pad support, cover cleanability and replacement needs for the expected patient population and dwell time.
Equip Your Team with Tools They Can Trust
Get high-quality, MRI-dedicated equipment that supports safer scans, better positioning, and smoother patient care.
View Trusted ProductsTransport control:
Check caster maneuverability, directional control and brake/locking mechanisms. Measure the entire route—not just the magnet room door.
Where a patient can transfer safely to a chair, also compare MRI wheelchairs. Establish the route around your facility’s zone plan using the four-zone MRI safety model, and use signs to reinforce controlled access.
MRI Stretcher FAQs
What makes a stretcher compatible for MRI use?
An MRI stretcher has manufacturer documentation and an MR designation that support use in the intended MRI environment. Its materials, components and accessories must be evaluated as a complete configuration. MR Conditional models must be used only within their stated conditions.
Can you use a regular hospital stretcher in an MRI room?
No. Regular hospital stretchers contain ferromagnetic materials and should not enter the MRI environment.
What weight capacities are available for MRI stretchers?
Available weight capacities vary by model, including standard and higher-capacity options. Use the manufacturer’s published maximum patient weight and dimensions when selecting equipment; never infer capacity from the frame’s appearance.
What is the difference between MRI stretchers and MRI wheelchairs?
MRI stretchers provide a lying transport surface and may support patients who cannot sit or require supine transport. MRI wheelchairs support seated transport. Both must have a suitable MR designation and be approved for the intended scanner and workflow.
How do you transport patients safely in Zone IV?
Use only equipment approved for the Zone IV environment, verify its designation and conditions, secure the patient according to facility policy, control the brakes and rails as appropriate, and follow the site’s trained-access and transfer procedure. Review guidance on avoiding MRI-suite transfer accidents with staff.
Are MRI stretchers height-adjustable?
Many MRI stretchers include height-adjustment features, but the available range and mechanism differ by model. Confirm that the selected model’s adjustment, locks and accessories meet the facility’s transfer and MRI-use requirements.
