Long Island man dies after being pulled into MRI machine by his chain.
A tragic incident occurred at a medical facility in Westbury, Long Island, resulting in the death of a 61-year-old man, Keith McAllister, who was pulled into an MRI machine while wearing a heavy weight-training chain. According to Nassau County police, McAllister was in the MRI room to assist his wife, who was undergoing a knee scan when the accident took place.
McAllister was wearing a 20-pound chain with a large lock around his neck, which he had previously carried into the facility without incident. His wife, Adrienne Jones-McAllister, had summoned him from the waiting area for assistance after her procedure. The technician permitted McAllister to enter the scanning room; however, as he approached the MRI machine, the magnetic field generated by the device caused the chain to be pulled into it, resulting in a catastrophic incident.
Reports indicate that both Jones-McAllister and the technician attempted to release McAllister from the grip of the machine. However, their efforts were in vain. Witnesses state that McAllister, who held a goodbye gesture toward his wife, subsequently lost consciousness. The machine’s powerful magnetic force reportedly kept him attached for nearly an hour.
Emergency responders transported McAllister to a local hospital, where he was declared dead at 2:36 PM the following day. Authorities have revealed that he suffered multiple heart attacks after being pulled into the MRI machine.
MRI technology, renowned for its ability to yield high-resolution images of internal organs and tissues, utilizes strong magnets that can exert considerable force on metallic objects. Consequently, it is imperative that patients remove all metal items before undergoing a scan, as failure to do so can lead to dangerous situations. Jones-McAllister noted that although her husband had permission to enter the MRI room, the technician did not remind him to remove the chain.
Experts assert that such accidents are extremely rare, where items made of iron or other magnetizable materials can be drawn into the MRI machine with force comparable to a torpedo. The incident has raised questions about safety protocols in healthcare settings, emphasizing the need for enhanced communication between staff and patients regarding medical equipment safety.
The Nassau County Police Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event. The family has also initiated a fundraising appeal to cover funeral expenses in light of this sudden loss. This tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the critical importance of adhering to safety guidelines in medical environments.
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