The most common nonionic compounds are iohexol, iopamidol, iopromide, iodixonol, ioversol, and ioxilan . Laryngospasm Respiratory arrest Treatment for minor reactions is not necessary for the symptoms are transient. Reassurance of the patient during minor reactions is recommended. Moderate reactions require treatment only for increased patient comfort. Moderate reactions are not life-threatening, but without treatment, can escalate into a severe reaction.
Severe reactions require immediate treatment in that they are life-threatening .
An IV line is required for administration of fluids and drugs. A ll RT's should stay current with CPR and be extremely familiar with the location and contents of the crash cart in case of a severe anaphylactoid reaction to contrast media . A fourth reaction is a vasovagal reaction which is not the result of the contrast medium, but by the patient's anxiety, stress and fear. Bradycardia and hypotension combined are true indicators of a vasovagal reaction. Treatment is to place the patient in a Trendelenburg position with possibly an IV line started.