Adverse reactions to intravenous contrast media: an unexpected discrepancy between inpatient and outpatient cohorts

Adverse reaction rates to computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents are well published. However, there is no literature regarding systems-based changes to improve contrast reaction management. As part of ongoing quality improvement monitoring at our institution, contrast reaction events were reviewed. Contrast reactions for CT and MRI were captured at lower rates for the inpatient setting compared to outpatient by an order of a magnitude. The documented inpatient events were more likely to be severe in nature. Given this discrepancy, focus is being placed upon identifying potential barriers to capturing and appropriately managing inpatient contrast reactions.