In MRI, what patient situation is likely to be more sensitive to induced electrical fields?

The correct response emphasizes that patients with metallic implants are particularly sensitive to induced electrical fields in MRI. This sensitivity arises because metallic implants can interact with the magnetic fields used in MRI, leading to a variety of complications, such as heating of the metal, movement of the implant, or disruption of the imaging process.

Metals are conductive materials that can create eddy currents when exposed to the rapidly changing magnetic fields of the MRI. These currents can result in unwanted effects, which could pose risks to patients, especially if the metal is in close proximity to critical tissues or organs. Additionally, some implants might not be MRI-compatible, heightening the risk during scanning procedures.

The other scenarios presented, while they may also present safety concerns, do not exhibit the same direct sensitivity to induced electrical fields as patients with metallic implants. For instance, pacemakers are certainly a major concern due to their electronic components, but they tend to have specific protocols and modern iterations designed to withstand MRI conditions. Heavily medicated patients and children may have other considerations in MRI safety, such as sedation and cooperation, but they do not inherently present increased sensitivity to induced electrical fields compared to patients with metallic implants.