LEGO MRI Scanner Set Alleviates Children's Anxiety in Hospitals Worldwide
In a remarkable initiative spearheaded by the LEGO Group, the LEGO MRI Scanner set has helped over one million children globally manage the stress associated with medical procedures. This innovative play-based tool is specifically designed to educate young patients about MRI scans through hands-on learning. Built to resemble an actual MRI machine, the set includes a scanner, patient bed, waiting room, and staff minifigures, providing a familiar and comforting environment for children facing the unknowns of medical procedures.
Healthcare professionals worldwide have reported significant benefits from using this engaging tool. A recent study indicates that 96% of medical staff believe the LEGO MRI Scanner effectively reduces children’s anxiety levels, and 46% noted a decrease in the need for sedation or general anesthesia during MRI scans. This is a significant development in pediatric healthcare, as many children find MRI scans particularly daunting due to the size of the machines and the requirement to remain still for extended periods.
Since its introduction in 2023, more than 10,000 LEGO MRI Scanner sets have been donated to hospitals and health institutions across the globe. This initiative reflects the LEGO Group's commitment to facilitating learning through play—a philosophy aimed at creating a more child-centered health experience. By encouraging role play and storytelling, the LEGO MRI Scanner reduces anxiety and enhances the overall hospital experience for children and their families.
The testimonials gathered from patients and healthcare providers underscore the positive impact of the LEGO MRI Scanner. For example, a 14-year-old cancer patient named Sam shared his experience of building the LEGO MRI machine while undergoing treatment at Boston Children's Hospital. This activity not only helped him cope with his anxiety during numerous scans but also ignited a newfound passion for LEGO bricks.
Sam's mother, Christina, praised the model's role in providing comfort: "When he faced particularly tough times in the hospital, building the LEGO MRI model gave him a sense of purpose and boosted his confidence. It transformed his experience, making it less frightening and more manageable."
Child Life Specialists working at Boston Children's Hospital echoed these sentiments, noting the unique ability of the LEGO MRI model to resonate with young patients. By associating the medical procedure with a familiar and fun object, children become more willing to interact and engage in conversations about their treatment.
Nurse Courtney Englehardt recounted how one patient, initially terrified about her upcoming MRI, relaxed significantly after playing with the LEGO model and discussing the procedure. The patient left her session saying, "I'm not scared anymore!" This example illustrates how such engagement techniques can facilitate a more calm preparation process for young patients.
Starlight Children’s Foundation, a partner in distributing the LEGO MRI Scanner sets, has highlighted how this resource transforms frightening hospital experiences into moments of learning and fun. According to Adam Garone, CEO of Starlight, empowering children through play makes medical processes less intimidating, improving not only children’s emotional well-being but also that of their families.
Diana Ringe Krogh, Vice President of the LEGO Group's Social Responsibility efforts, emphasizes that play can have a profound impact on a child’s healthcare experience. By allowing children the chance to explore and learn through play, they feel more in control and better equipped to face their medical challenges.
The LEGO MRI Scanner set is currently not for sale to the public; instead, it is distributed through partnerships with various organizations, including Fairy Bricks and United Way. This strategy aligns with the LEGO Group's broader goal of ensuring all children can benefit from playful learning—especially those in difficult situations.
In summary, the LEGO MRI Scanner set is more than just a toy; it is an innovative tool that has the potential to transform the pediatric healthcare landscape. By blending education and play, it helps alleviate fears associated with medical treatments, providing comfort and reducing the need for sedation during procedures. As hospitals continue to embrace this creative approach, it paves the way for more engaging, child-friendly healthcare environments worldwide.