Investigating the Experiences and Self-Reported Abilities of Diagnostic Radiographers in Responding to...

Radiographers play a crucial role in preparing and administering contrast media (CM) during computed tomography (CT) examinations, including ensuring that appropriate prophylactic pre-medication is provided to patients at increased risk of contrast-induced hypersensitivty reactions. Despite this responsibility, limited research has explored radiographers' perceptions and experiences in recognising and managing common hypersensitivity reactions related to CM during CT examinations. This study aims to investigate the experiences and self-reported abilities of diagnostic radiographers in responding to contrast-induced hypersensitivity reactions associated with CT examinations.

This study employed a quantitative cross-sectional design involving licensed radiographers who perform CT examinations. The study was a survey in which a questionnaire was administered and completed by the radiographers, including demographics, the types of CM agents used, experiences in managing contrast-induced hypersensitivity reactions, and self-reported proficiency in recognising and managing such reactions.

Ninety radiographers participated in the study. Most [80 (69.6%)] reported using non-ionic low osmolar CM. The majority [82 (91.1%)] had received CM hypersensitivity reactions education as part of undergraduate training. Additionally, 63 (70.0%) radiographers received additional training. Most participants strongly agreed [67 (74.4%)] that radiographers play important roles in educating patients about CM and in reporting and documenting hypersensitivity reactions. Participants were of the view that history of prior hypersensitivity reactions to CM is the commonest patient factor to be associated with a higher risk of hypersensitivity contrast reactions during CT examinations [78 (48.4%)]. Forty-three (47.8%) of the responses were of the view that screening patients for pre-existing allergies as well as adequate prophylaxis and the use of lower-risk contrast agents could minimise the occurrence of hypersensitivity contrast reactions. Only 34 (37.8%) and 18 (20.0%) of the participants indicated that they were either confident or highly confident in their ability to manage hypersensitivity reactions to CM respectively.

The study revealed that radiographers may have a working knowledge of recognising and managing hypersensitivity reactions to CM. However, some radiographers were least confident in their ability to manage such reactions. This suggests the need for continuous training to ensure that radiographers are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills for recognition and appropriate management of CM reactions.