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RAD 1127 > CONTRAST MEDIA > Flashcards

CONTRAST MEDIA Flashcards

1
Q

What are CONTRAST MEDIA (AGENTS)?

A

are substances which are added to the body during radiographic studies to visualize a specific part.

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2
Q

WHAT ARE 5 RADIOGRAPHIC DENSITIES?

A

Air (gas)
Fat
Water
Mineral
Metal

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3
Q

WHAT IS THE Purpose of contrast study?

A

To visualize anatomic structures that are not normally seen on a diagnostic medical image

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4
Q

CONTRAST MEDIA

A

-Visualizes anatomy normally not seen

-Requires the administration of media(agent) into patient

-Requires attention to indications and contraindications

-Warrants serious attention to patient reactions

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5
Q

Radiographic images without contrast media will have what type of contrast?

A

“low subject contrast” which means it will be difficult to the different areas within the body.

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6
Q

Adding contrast media or a contrast agents will permit the visualization of organs and structures such as?

A

such as vessels that could not be visualized without the addition of contrast media.

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7
Q

Two Types of Contrast Media

A
  1. Negative
  2. Positive
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8
Q

When must a pre-test patient interview be done?

A

prior to all contrast studies to R/O the possibility of previous allergic reactions and to identify any medical conditions that the patient may have that may alter the procedure

-Such as asthma or diabetes.

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9
Q

WHAT KIND OF FORM WILL PATIENTS BE REQUIRED TO SIGN?

A

Patients will be required to sign a consent form for all radiographic studies that will require the administration of contrast media.

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10
Q

INFORMED CONSENT IS NEEDED FOR?

A

Usually for invasive procedures such as special procedures and IV contrast injection procedures and the instillation of a contrast agent other than orally or rectally.

The consent form is separate from the general admissions forms signed by the patient.

The patient must be of sound mind and legal age.

Consent must be signed by the parent or legal guardian for minors.

Adult patients may also have a legal guardian.

The patient must give consent freely (voluntarily).

The patient must be adequately informed about the procedure about to take place.

Explanation of the procedure must be in terms the patient understands.

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11
Q

WHY IS A IMPLIED CONSENT NEEDED?

A

It Provides care when the patient is unconscious.

Based on the assumption that the patient would approve if able or conscious.

Even with a signed consent, if during a radiographic exam, the patient decides to stop a radiographic procedure (with or without contrast) the radiographer must stop the exam as soon as it is safe to do so.

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12
Q

Radiographer Responsibilities in the Administration of Contrast Media:

A

Know considerations

Knowledge of potential adverse reactions

Preparation of patient

Know indications

Preparation of contrast material(s).

Patient education and support

Obtain patient consent

Obtain and record patient history

Record the patient’s BUN and Creatine levels.

Monitor patients throughout exam.

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13
Q

JCAHO (Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations) Medication Management Standard

A

All contrast agents (i.e., iodinated for injection and Oral Barium) are consideration medications.

Each contrast agent must have a written order for the drug to be administered and the contrast agents must be handled in accordance with the protocol for any prescription medication.

This includes having a written order and a thorough medication and health history. Many other prescription and over-the-counter drugs may interact with or have contraindications to the contrast agents.

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14
Q

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF CONTRAST MEDIA?

A

-NEGATIVE
-POSITIVE
-SPECIALTY CONTRAST AGENTS

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15
Q

NEGATIVE

A

Radiolucent – (negative) contrast agents transmit x-rays.

Negative contrast agents are
- air and carbon dioxide.

Negative contrast agents are composed of elements with low atomic number.

Negative contrast agents will appear dark on radiographs.

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16
Q

When do negative contrast agents combine with a positive contrast?

A

Negative contrast agents may be combined with positive contrast agents
(i.e. air added to barium)

(To produce double-contrast studies)

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17
Q

NEGATIVE

A
  • Air and Carbon dioxide
  • May be used by themselves or combined with a positive contrast

The atomic number of Hydrogen is 1.

The atomic number of carbon Dioxide is 6.

The atomic number of Oxygen is 8.

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18
Q

Complications of using negative contrast:

A

-Embolus (air injected into the bloodstream)

-Because of the risk of air emboli, negative contrast media is never introduced (injected) into the blood stream.

-Joint distention, pain will occur after the injection of air into the joint space

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19
Q

POSITIVE ( BARIUM)

A

Radiopaque – (positive) contrast absorbs x-rays

Positive contrast agents are composed of elements with high atomic numbers
.
Positive contrast agents will appear whit on radiographs

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20
Q

Specialty Contrast Agents

A

ULTRASOUNDS
-MICROBUBBLES

MR SCANNING
-gadolinium-DTPA.

those agents used for specialty exam such as MRI and Sonography

MRI – the contrast agent most often used is gadolinium-DTPA.

US – the contrast agent most often used is gas-filled micro bubbles.

Specialty contrast agents such as gadolinium diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (gadolinium-DTPA) used in MRI

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21
Q

Why Is Air Not Used More Often as a Contrast Material?

A

Low Persistence

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22
Q

Perfect Contrast Material

A
  • Very–high-contrast visualization
  • Extremely low toxicity to patient
  • Persistence in patient anatomy until imaging is completed
  • Low cost
  • Minimal or no side effects
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23
Q

KEY CONTRAST CHARACTERISTICS

A

Ability of agent to mix with body fluids

Viscosity - the thickness of a liquid or resistance to the flow of a contrast agent.

Ionic strength

Persistence in the body

Iodine content

Potential for toxicity

Osmolality

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24
Q

Osmolality

A

is the measurement of the number of particles in a solution per kilogram of water.

Contrast agents have osmolalities much higher than those of other body fluids.’

Most allergic reactions occur with contrast agents that have high osmolality.

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25
Q

Osmosis

A

the process by which water moves from an area of greater concentration to an area of lesser concentration.

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26
Q

Viscosity

A

describes the thickness of a liquid or resistance to the flow of a contrast agent.

(Viscosity (thickness) may be significantly reduced by warming the solution to near body temperature.)

Contrast agents are also highly viscous (thick and Sticky).

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27
Q

Common Contrast Choices

A
  1. BARIUM SULFATE
  2. AIR/GAS (CO2)
  3. OIL-BASED IODINE CONTRAST AGENT
  4. WATER SOLUBLE CONTRAST AGENT
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28
Q

CONTRAST MEDIA CHOICES

A

BARIUM- 56
IODINE-58
AIR/GAS- AVERAGE Z#8

The atomic number of Hydrogen is 1.

The atomic number of carbon Dioxide is 6.
The atomic number of Oxygen is 8.

29
Q

Barium sulfate (INERT SALT)

A

POSITIVE CONTRAST

Barium is the commonly used contrast medium used to visualize the GI tract.’

Barium is an inert compound radiopaque substance.

The atomic number of BaSO4 is 56.

Barium mixed with water is a suspension.

-Push fluid following barium studies

30
Q

BARIUM

A

High atomic number enhances the photoelectric effect.

Chemically inert

Insoluble in water

Tends to flocculate in acid pH

Contraindicated in cases of bowel perforation

Typically mixed with flavors, coloring, and so on to improve palatability

Hypervolemia must be considered in colon examinations.

31
Q

Barium Studies of the GI Tract

A

Be aware of extravasation of barium in suspected cases of bowel perforations
- CHANGE TO iodine if contraindicated

32
Q

COMPLICATIONS OF BARIUM

A

-Barium is contraindicated if there is a perforation of the digestive tract.

-Barium cannot be absorbed into the body.

-Peritonitis may occur if barium enters the pelvic or peritoneal cavity. The barium will need to be surgically removed.

-

33
Q

Complications of Barium

A

Barium may pass into the peritoneal cavity or bloodstream through a break in the mucosa.

In place of barium a water soluble iodine contrast will be used such as Gastrographin.

Barium Peritonitis is an extravasation of BaSO4 into the abdominal cavity.

34
Q

Aspiration

A

inhalation of BASO4 into the lungs during a UGI, Esophagram or Small Bowel Series may occur if the patient aspirates during the procedure.

35
Q

Allergic Reaction

A

allergies to BASO4 are rare but may occur and are usually

caused by the additives to the barium.

Over-inflation of the retention balloon of the enema catheter (tip) may cause perforation of the rectum or colon.

Latex enema tip allergy.

Patients must be screened from possible latex allergies. Nonlatex enema tips are available.

36
Q

Constipation

A

patients should be instructed to drink plenty of water for a few days following an exam in which BASO4 is used. The main symptom of obstruction of the colon is constipation.

37
Q

WATER SOLUBLE IODATED CONTRAST AGENTS

A

IONICS VS NONIONICS

38
Q

IONIC CONTRAST AGENTS

A

Uses iodine as the contrast material
Dissociates into two ions:

                 Anion and Cation

Viscosity

Osmotic effects

Dehydrated patients are vulnerable to hypovolemic shock.

Be aware of concentration of molecular particles in contrast agent.

39
Q

IONIC CONTRAST AGENTS

A

The higher the iodine concentration, the greater the risk of adverse reactions.

Any contrast agent that contains iodine increases the risk for anaphylactic reactions.

Iodine has an atomic number of 53 which means iodine is a radiopaque substance.

Examples of Iodinated Contrast Agents:
Hypaque
Renografin

40
Q

OIL BASED IONIC CONTRAST AGENTS

A

Insoluble in water

High viscosity – oil based iodinated contrasts do not flow easily through the syringe.

Oil based contrast agents are used infrequently in radiography.

Oil based contrasts are used for i.e. Bronchography and Lymphography.

41
Q

OIL BASED CONTINUE

A

Store in a cool, dark area. When exposed to air, heat, and light the contrast breaks down or decomposes.

Do not use it if a color change occurs, should be a pale yellow or amber.

A dark color change indicates a decomposition of the contrast material.

Use only glass syringes, not plastic.

Toxic substances from plastic syringes may dissolve into the Oil-based contrast.

42
Q

ANAPHYLACTOID REACTIONS

A

Urticaria
Wheezing
Throat swelling (edema)
Bronchospasm
Nausea
Vomiting
Cardiac arrest

It is critical to take a thorough patient history when contrast media is a part of any examination

43
Q

NONIONIC CONTRAST AGENTS

A

Do not dissociate into anions and cations

Water soluble

No ionic breakdown and less toxic at the cellular level

Warmed to increase viscosity

High contrast effect resulting from
number of iodine atoms per molecule

Reduced injection volumes

44
Q

NON IONIC CONTINUE

A

Also called lower-osmolality contrast media.

They cost two to three times more than iodinated contrasts but are less likely to cause allergic reactions.

More tolerable by patients

Examples of Non-Iodinated Contrast Agents:
Isovue
Omnipaque
Ultravist

45
Q

Non-Iodinated Contrast agents are used when patients have:

A

Hx of adverse reactions to contrast
Hx of asthma or allergies
Known cardiac problems
Diabetes mellitus
Renal disease
Sickle cell disease
Elevated creatine levels
Patients that will have a Helical CT

Patients at increased risk for reactions should receive nonionic contrast agents.

46
Q

Contrast Considerations

A

Patient history
Renal function
Contrast cost
Metformin (Glucophage) should be discontinued for 48 hours before and 48 hours after the use of iodine contrast media.
Contrast-enhanced CT studies

47
Q

Contrast Reactions

A

Generally, occur within the first minute of injection
Can be unpredictable
Mild reaction may worsen to severe at any time.
Reaction is different from a side effect.
Monitor patient continually.

48
Q

Types of Reactions to Contrast Media

A

Minor Reactions

Rash, Hives (urticaria)
Vomiting, Nausea
Cough
Itchy palms/soles
Metallic or altered taste
Warmth, heat
Headache

Dizziness
Shaking
Pallor
Flushing of the skin
Chills, sweats
Nasal stuffiness
Swelling, eyes and face
Anxiety

49
Q

Vasovagal Reaction

A

Sudden episodes of hypotension and fainting that may occur during a radiographic procedure induced by the response of the nervous system to abrupt emotional stress, pain, or trauma.

The Vasovagal nerve becomes overstimulated, and the patient may become extremely lightheaded and may pass out.

The Vasovagal reaction is also called a Vasovagal attack.

50
Q

Radiographers Response to a Vasovagal Reaction (Syncope)

A

Check the person’s airway, breathing and circulation.
If necessary, call a code and begin rescue breathing and CPR.
Loosen tight clothing around the neck.
Keep the affected person lying down for at least 10-15 minutes, preferably in a cool and quiet space.
If the person cannot lie down, have him sit forward and lower his head below the levels of the shoulders, between the knees.
If the person has vomited, turn him or her to one side to prevent choking and aspiration.

Elevate the feet above the level of the heart (about 12 inches).

51
Q

Moderate (intermediate) Reactions

A

Respiratory
Tachycardia/Bradycardia
Hypotension
Hypertension
Persistent hives

Facial swelling
Dyspnea
Bronchospasm, wheezing
Laryngeal edema

52
Q

Severe Reactions

A

Convulsions
Laryngeal edema
Severe respiratory symptoms
Severe hypotension

Cardiac arrhythmia’s
Shock
Unconsciousness, unresponsiveness
Cardiopulmonary Arrest

53
Q

Radiographer response to Severe Reactions:

A

Immediately obtain medical assistance. Inform the radiologist or MD of any reactions that the patient is having from the contrast agent.
Clinical findings will indicate the need for immediate medical treatment including drug therapy.

54
Q

Treatment of Severe Reactions

A

Maintain an open airway
Maintain an open IV
Monitor vital signs
Antihistamines are used to counteract hives and urticaria.
Blood pressure must be monitored and the patient should be checked for heart irregularities.
CPR as indicated by patient’s condition.

55
Q

Scheduling of Exams
(requiring contrast media administration)

A
  1. All exams without contrast should be scheduled first.
  2. Ultrasounds exams are scheduled before barium studies
  3. Studies involving intra-vascular contrast are done before Barium Studies
  4. “BE” exams are performed before UPPER GI STUDIES

5.Exams that require patients to fast before the exam should be scheduled in the morning.

56
Q

Fasting Instructions for Patients with Diabetes

A

Diabetic patients are at risk for changes to their blood sugar if they fast for a radiographic exam.

All diabetic patients should obtain instruction from their referring MD whether they are to take their usual dose of insulin or other diabetes medication on the day of the exam. All diabetes patients may be closely observed for rapidly developing symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.

Non-insulin dependent diabetic patients that are taking the medication Glucophage (Metformin) will be instructed by their referring MD to discontinue the Glucophage for 48 hours after a radiographic contrast exam using an iodine contrast media.

57
Q

SEQUENCE OF RADIOGRAPHIC CONTRAST EXAMS

A

1st IVP
2nd GB
3rd BE
4th GI

58
Q

RADIOGRAPHIC CONTRAST EXAMS THAT MAY BE PERFORMED TOGETHER

A

GB and IVP
IVP and BE
GB and GI

2-1
1-3
2-4

59
Q

LAB TESTS PRIOR TO CONTRAST ADMINISTRATION

A

Two lab (blood) tests should be done before contrast exams to determine renal function.
Renal function is important because contrast media is filtered through the kidneys.

60
Q

BUN – blood urea nitrogen

A

BUN provides information about kidney function and the ability of the kidneys to remove impurities from the body. BUN normal values range between 5 to 25 mg/dl.

61
Q

Creatine

A

Creatine – creatine is a waste product stored in the muscles.
Elevated creatine levels indicate impairment of the function of the kidneys.
Creatine normal values range between 0.6 to 1.7 mg/dl

62
Q

SCREENING FOR CONTRAST AGENTS

A

The radiographer must ascertain and report to the radiology nurse and radiologist the following:

If the patient has had any prior reactions to a contrast agent or radiology procedure.

If the patient has any known allergies to iodine, barium, latex or shellfish.

If the patient has any of the following pre-existing medical conditions:

Hypertension
Asthma
Sickle cell anemia
Renal impairment
Diabetes

The radiographer’s responsibilities (i.e. obtaining consent, taking a patient history, documentation, screening, preparing the contrast agents etc.) will depend on institutional policy.

63
Q

PATIENT PREPARATION FOR RADIOGRAPHIC CONTRAST EXAMS

A

The patient should be given pre-procedural instructions at the time that the appointment for the contrast exam is made.

Pre-procedural Instructions

IVP
NPO after midnight
Cleansing enemas
Empty bladder before scout film

64
Q

PATIENT PREPARATION FOR RADIOGRAPHIC CONTRAST EXAMS

A

GB
Patient takes prescribed iodinated contrast (tablets) the evening before scheduled exam
Evening meal is fat free to prevent gallbladder contraction
Water only in the morning of the exam

BE
Cathartics (laxatives) as prescribed by MD
Low residue diet
Cleansing enemas

UGI
NPO after midnight

65
Q

Radiopharmaceuticals

A

-Not contrast agents

-Radioactive material chemically attached to a pharmaceutical that is metabolized in the body

-Biodistribution is important

-Typically emit gamma radiation

-Detected by gamma camera in the nuclear department

-Effective for cellular physiology assessment

-Contamination and spillage of critical importance

66
Q

Handling Radiopharmaceuticals

A

Time is of the essence.
Be aware of contaminations.
Contaminations can produce image artifacts.
Contaminations increase exposure unnecessarily to patients and personnel.

Two types of contamination:
External
Internal

67
Q

Health Professional Responsibilities When Administering Contrast Agents

A

Administered under the supervision of a licensed physician with proper qualifications
Patient assessment and history
Patient comfort and education
Recognize signs and symptoms of reaction and act appropriately.
Patient care and surveillance
Post exam considerations for patient
Remain calm and reassuring during procedures.

68
Q

CONCLUSION

A

Contrast materials are an indispensable part of medical imaging.

Classified as positive or negative

Rely on the photoelectric effect for contrast visualization

Iodine-based contrast media can cause anaphylaxis.

Nonionic, low-osmolality contrast agents have reduced patient reactions but still a reality of imaging.

Radiopharmaceuticals are used to assess cellular physiology (perfusion)
.
Patient reactions and care are constant responsibilities of the radiologic sciences professional.

RAD 1127 (17 decks)

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