Preparedness of CT technicians and radiographers for severe contrast media reactions: knowledge gaps and training needs
TL;DR
Structured, recurrent, competency-based training programs focusing on risk assessment, reaction recognition, emergency management, and simulation-based practice are needed to strengthen preparedness and patient safety during contrast-enhanced CT.
Abstract
Background Severe contrast media reactions during computed tomography (CT) are rare but potentially life-threatening and require rapid recognition and coordinated emergency response. CT technicians and radiographers are often frontline professionals during contrast-enhanced CT, yet their preparedness in Jordan remains underexplored. Objective To assess knowledge of severe contrast media reactions among CT technicians and radiographers in Jordan and identify factors associated with total knowledge scores. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire adapted from a previously published tool. The questionnaire assessed five domains: general knowledge of contrast media, risk factors, precautions, recognition of severe reactions, and management. Scores were converted to percentages. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U tests, Kruskal–Wallis tests, Spearman correlation, and multivariable linear regression. Results The analysis included 314 participants. The median total knowledge score was 76.3% (IQR: 55.3–84.2). General knowledge showed the highest median score (100%, IQR: 80–100), whereas risk factor knowledge was the lowest-performing domain (65%, IQR: 50–80). Radiographers achieved higher total knowledge scores than technicians (78.9% vs. 71.0%, p = 0.002). Total knowledge also differed significantly across educational levels (p = 0.043). In multivariable regression, total knowledge was independently associated with gender, age group, master's-level education, professional role, experience >25 years, and self-reported confidence. Conclusion CT technicians and radiographers in Jordan demonstrated moderate-to-high overall knowledge of severe contrast media reactions, but important gaps were evident, particularly in risk factor recognition. Structured, recurrent, competency-based training programs focusing on risk assessment, reaction recognition, emergency management, and simulation-based practice are needed to strengthen preparedness and patient safety during contrast-enhanced CT.