RUN fMRI PARTICIPANTS
The fMRI machine is managed by the Dartmouth Brain Imaging Center, and is located in the basement of Moore Hall.
Before Scanning
Make sure everyone on your team has the appropriate level of scanner training. Contact Terry Sackett, Dartmouth's MRI Research Technologist, to find out available training times. There must always be two trained people in the room to run a scan. Undergraduate RAs often work as "scan buddies" and accompany fully trained (level 3) MR users while scanning
Work with Meghan to fill out a DBIC application for permission to create a scanner protocol. Send the completed application to Courtney Rodgers, DBIC's Administrative Assistant. Note: All team members listed on the form must also be listed in your IRB, or Courtney will not approve them
After your application is approved, you can create your scanner protocol (settings, scan lengths, etc.) If you need help, Terry is a great resource
Once you've completed all the above steps, contact Courtney Rogers to be added to the DBIC Calendar so you can book scan times
Set up a physical file system for consent forms etc. (See Setting Up Folders below)
Setting up Folders
How to set up blank folders:
Each participant gets a separate folder. Blank folders are located in the bottom drawer of the rightmost filing cabinet under the whiteboard
Each folder should contain 1) MRI screening form, 2) consent form, 3) debriefing form, 4) payment form
The MRI screening form can be found in the cabinet above Terry's desk in the scan room—make as many copies as you need. The other forms will need to be printed
Where to put blank folders:
Store in the bottom drawer of the rightmost filing cabinet under the whiteboard.
Use a divider to separate your folders clearly from other studies
What to do with folders during the study:
On the folder tab, write the subject number, study name, DBIC ID, and accession number
When the participant arrives, give them the consent form & MRI screening form to fill out. Store the filled out forms in the folder
When the participant finishes, give them the debriefing form and have them fill out the payment form (if paying them). Sore the filled out payment form in the folder
Where to put filled out folders:
Since these contain personal info, they need to be stored in the LOCKED file cabinet in the second RA room
Use a divider to separate your folders clearly from other studies
Running A Scan
Print out the following guide and fill in the blanks with instructions specific to your study.
If something goes wrong
If a scan reveals an anatomical anomaly in a subject, inform Terry Sackett immediately.
If you experiences technical issues with the scanner while Terry is gone, call Terry!
If a subject starts to feel anxious, claustrophobic, or otherwise uncomfortable during scanning, offer to stop the experiment immediately and tell them you'll grant them partial payment/T-Point at your discretion, depending on how long they've been there.