For Urology Northwest's radiology department patient safety is one of the most important concerns when performing any diagnostic radiology procedure.  For this reason we screen all patients that will be receiving oral barium and/or an intravenous injection of iodine.

If a patient has had a past allergic reaction to iodine and depending on the severity of the reaction, the technologist and the ordering physician will determine what precautionary measures should be taken.  This could include pre-medication for minor allergic reactions (hives) to withholding the injection for more severe reactions (shortness of breath or chest discomfort).  The injection precautions will be explained to the patient before an injection is given.  The pre-medication that is used by Urology Northwest, PS is as follows:

1.  Prednisone 50mg by mouth 13 hours prior to the contrast injection

2.  Prednisone 50 mg by mouth  7 hours prior to the contrast injection

3.  Prednisone 50 mg by mouth  1 hour prior to the contrast injection

4.  Benadryl     25 mg by mouth  1 hour prior to the contrasst injection

Because of the possible sedative properties of Benadryl the patient should have someone available to drive him/her home after the exam.

If the CT scan requires the oral barium contrast a complete explanation is given to the patient which explains why the contrast is needed and what minor side effects may result.

If the patient is 60 years of age or older or has any history of renal insufficiencies, cancer, diabetes or a past medical history that contradicts the use of iodine, a blood test will be done to determine kidney function.  If the kidney function is abnormal, precautions are taken to assure no additional damage will be caused.  These precautions may include; oral hydrations, I.V. hydration to less contrast or no contrast being injected.

The radiology department is equipped with a portable AED and the technologist, physicians and other medical staff are CPR certified, in the event a patient does have any kind of reaction to the iodine injection.  The technologist is always in sight of the patient and a provider is always present in the building when an injection is given.