A client reports to their primary health care provider with a suspected diagnosis of a herniated disk. The primary health care provider has ordered the patient to have an MRI done. The nurse knows that the patient can not have an MRI due to which of the following?

A. Allergy to contrast dye and shellfish: MRI contrast (gadolinium) is different from iodinated contrast used in CT scans, and shellfish allergy is not a contraindication to MRI. While allergies should be assessed, most MRIs can be done without contrast, making this less of a limiting factor. B. Cardiac pacemaker: Traditional pacemakers are a major contraindication to MRI due to the strong magnetic field, which can interfere with device function, cause overheating of leads, or lead to life-threatening arrhythmias. Although some newer pacemakers are MRI-compatible, this must be verified before proceeding. C. A recent cancer diagnosis: Having cancer does not prevent a client from undergoing MRI; in fact, MRI is often used to evaluate tumors and soft tissue involvement. There is no inherent risk from MRI related to cancer itself. D. Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath may cause discomfort when lying flat during the procedure, but it is not an absolute contraindication. The nurse can implement supportive measures such as positioning or monitoring, allowing the MRI to still be completed if needed.