Which of the following would likely increase patient comfort in MR procedures?

Employing a comfortable patient couch is significant because it directly enhances the physical comfort of the patient during an MR procedure. A comfortable couch allows for adequate support and minimizes strain on the body, which is essential since patients may need to remain still in the scanner for extended periods. Comfort is crucial for reducing anxiety and the likelihood of motion artifacts that can degrade image quality. When a patient feels physically secure and comfortable, they are more likely to tolerate the procedure without discomfort.

In contrast, a longer scanning time could increase discomfort as patients may have to remain still for extended durations, leading to increased restlessness or anxiety. A high noise environment, typical in MRI procedures due to the gradients and the refrigeration process, can cause additional stress for patients, making the experience uncomfortable. Utilizing magnetic sedation might not only introduce complexities regarding safety and patient monitoring but could also have potential side effects that could diminish overall comfort.