Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2026

A Novel Approach for the Administration of Medications and Fluids in Emergency Scenarios and Settings
Published on: November 9, 2016
Myth: Pretreatment Prevents Intravenous Contrast Reactions in the Emergency Department
Kevin Molyneux1, Jennifer Beck-Esmay2
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 622 W 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.
None:
Premedication protocols are common in the Emergency Department (ED) before intravenous contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans to prevent adverse reactions to the contrast media. Such protocols arose due to the complications related to the high-osmolality contrast used 40 years ago, not the modern low-osmolality contrast, which carries a significantly lower risk of adverse reactions. Established regimens call for hours-long premedication protocols, which are often not feasible for emergency physicians due to the time-sensitive nature of ED evaluation. This article reviews the evidence (or lack thereof) for benefits related to premedication, while also considering the potential harms.
Related Concept Videos
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT
Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography
Radiological Investigation I: X-ray and CT
Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
Imaging Studies VII: Vascular Imaging
Cardiac Catheterization IV: Nursing Management

