Management of acute contrast media reactions: Assessing preparedness of a tertiary care veterans affairs medical center

摘要

Acute contrast media reactions can range in severity from mild discomfort to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Three percent of all patients receiving intravenous (IV) contrast will experience reactions, although most will not require treatment. Severe, potentially life-threatening reactions occur in about 1 in 2,500 patients [1]. Overall, contrast reactions remain rare, particularly because of the widespread use of nonionic, low-osmolar contrast media. Because of the rarity of adverse reactions to contrast, many radiologists and hospital staff members remain unfamiliar with optimal treatments, appropriate medications, and their respective doses. Additionally, reaction training for nonradiology staff members covering after hours is not well established.