Title:The Diverse Utility of Contrast Media Delivery and Dosing During Computed Tomography: An International Assessment of Knowledge and Practices
Volume: 17
Issue: 4
Author(s): Mohammad Rawashdeh*, Daniah Kashabash, Praveen Kumar and Charbel Saade
Affiliation:
- Department of Medical Imaging Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE
- Department of Allied Medical Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and
Technology, Irbid, Jordan
Keywords:
Contrast media delivery, computed tomography, knowledge, practices, pulmonary angiography CT, renal CT scans.
Abstract:
Background: Despite the escalated production rate, the Iodinated Contrast Media
(ICM) shortage continues, and demand outweighs supply.
Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate the knowledge and practice of ICM delivery in
computed tomography (CT) among radiographers and radiologic technologists worldwide.
Methods: An IRB-approved cross-sectional survey used Google Forms for data collection. It
involved 94 CT radiographers from 27 countries and was divided into five sections. The first
section gathered demographic information, followed by sections on experience, self-assessment
of ICM reactions, and delivery technique. The third section explored ICM knowledge and its
relation to CT parameters. The fourth and fifth sections focus on practices during pulmonary
angiography CT and renal CT scans. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, the Chi-
Square test, and ANOVA.
Results: Knowledge was assessed with seven questions, and a score of at least 3.5 was needed
for categorization. The median score was two, indicating low knowledge. Specifically, 64.9% of
the participants scored lower than the two scores. Years of experience are strongly correlated
with the level of knowledge, with 51.6% of radiographers having more than 10 years of experience
demonstrating adequate knowledge. 41.7% of respondents demonstrated adequate
knowledge when their duty was focused on CT. Furthermore, wide practice variability exists in
all CT pulmonary angiography protocols among radiographers with adequate and inadequate
knowledge.
Conclusion: Inexperienced individuals showed knowledge gaps, leading to varied practices and
highlighting the need for educational programs. The study underscores establishing standardized
Protocols and Practice Guidelines (PPGs) for contrast media administration in Radiology Departments.
Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of regular training programs, and international
knowledge sharing. The potential for self-selection bias in the online survey sample is
highlighted.
