Administration of Contrast, Isotopes & Radiopharmaceuticals
Contrast pharmacology has evolved significantly over the past decade. This policy is based on references from AIIMS, ACR recommendations, and Wipro GE.
Administration Approval
Contrast / isotopes / radiopharmaceuticals are administered only on recommendation of the clinician or radiologist when necessary for proper investigation.
Consent & Patient History
Proper consent is mandatory before administration. Detailed patient history, past records, and blood reports are reviewed prior to contrast use.
High Risk Patients
High-risk patients are identified and contrast is administered only after thorough risk assessment.
Allergy & Risk Disclosure
Patients are informed about pros/cons and potential risks. Past allergies or reactions are carefully evaluated. In such cases, anaesthetist consultation is mandatory.
Least toxic contrast is always selected. In case of doubt, referring clinician is consulted before administration.
Pregnancy possibility is always considered in females of child-bearing age.
Procedure of Contrast Administration
Technologist verifies five rights: right patient, medication, dose, route, and time. Dosage is based on scan protocol and body weight.
Patient is reassured before injection. IV catheter patency is checked using saline before administering contrast.
If resistance or pain occurs, injection is not performed and a new IV site is established.
After injection, catheter is flushed and site is monitored for swelling or complications. Patient is continuously observed for reactions.
All details of contrast (name, type, quantity, mode) are documented in the report.
Any adverse reaction is managed by an anaesthetist. If required, patient is shifted to a hospital with medical support.
eGFR Conditions Before Contrast
Renal disease or transplant history
Liver transplant (within 1 month)
Renal-related tests (KUB / urography)
Contraindications
Allergy to contrast and compromised renal function must be ruled out.
If eGFR < 30, contrast is avoided unless specifically advised by the consultant.
Dialysis patients require consultation before contrast CT.
Contrast is generally avoided in infants (<1 year) and pregnant patients unless approved by the referring doctor with consent.
