While hypersensitivity reactions to contrast media are now rare due to improved contrast agents and screening procedures, they still do occur. Radiologists, radiology departments, and affiliated personnel (RTs and radiology nurses) may become complacent about being thoroughly prepared to handle acute adverse reactions since they are not a common occurrence.
Maximizing throughput in radiology departments is integral in allowing these units to provide return-on-investment for extremely costly equipment such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Unfortunately pre-examination screening is not necessarily a mandate in this rapid paced environment, which can lead to unnecessary adverse outcomes.
Necessary education is not conveniently accessible on the subject of hypersensitivity reactions to CM and until recently was not part of the core curriculum in the training of radiologists, RTs, and radiology nurses.
After completing this activity, the participants should be better able to:
- Describe the pathophysiologic basis for acute adverse events (AEs) associated with both gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) and iodinated contrast media (CM), and dispel commonly held misconceptions about them
- Review recommendations for screening patients to determine those at increased risk for acute AEs to contrast, as well as those requiring premedication
- Recognize the signs and symptoms of the most common and important acute AEs
- Implement effective protocols for managing CM-related AEs
- Provide training and describe resources needed for a facility to be prepared to manage CM-related AEs effectively
This activity has been designed for radiologists, radiologic technologists (RTs), and radiology nurses to help them become familiar with the signs, symptoms, and effective management of acute adverse reactions associated with contrast media.
This program has been approved for 1.5 hours of Category A CE credit as designated by the International Society for MR Radiographers & Technologists (ISMRT) RCEEM. Additionally, this activity may be available in multiple formats or from different sponsors. ARRT regulations state that an individual may not repeat an activity for credit if it was reported in the same or any subsequent biennium.
Release Date: 03/11/2026 | Expiration Date 03/11/2027
Participants may claim only one type of credit for this educational activity.
Faculty and Planner Disclosures:
As an accredited provider of continuing medical education, Northwest Imaging Forums, Inc. (NWIF) ensures balance, independence, objectivity, and scientific rigor in all its educational activities. In accordance with the ACCME Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Continuing Education, all faculty and planners are required to disclose all financial relationships with ineligible companies within the last 24 months. All relevant financial relationships have been mitigated by NWIF to ensure the integrity of the CME activity. The planner has nothing to disclose.
