Patient Experience during Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography Examination: Anxiety, Feelings, and Safety

Abstract

Introductions: Computed tomography is one of the biggest breakthroughs in diagnostic imaging. In order to more accurately assess structures and pathological changes during the examination, it is necessary to administer a contrast agent. Patients presenting for the examination, very often only find out during the examination that a contrast agent is required. This increases patients’ uncertainty when giving written consent for contrast administration, as well as anxiety about the examination. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of patients who have contrast-enhanced CT scans, focusing primarily on anxiety, feelings, and safety. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted in diagnostic imaging offices in Pomeranian Voivodeship in 2019–2020. The survey was aimed at patients presenting for CT examinations with intravenous contrast injection. In total, 172 patients participated in the survey. A proprietary survey questionnaire was used to conduct the study. Results and Conclusions: During a CT scan, intravenous contrast agent administration is often necessary. Although there are few studies on patients’ experiences with this examination, the authors observe that some patients experience anxiety. The results of our study showed the following: (1) 30.8% of patients experience anxiety before a CT scan with intravenous contrast injection; (2) variables such as gender, previous experience, and searching for information about the examination influence the occurrence of anxiety; (3) the most common feelings experienced by patients during intravenous contrast injection are a sensation of warmth spreading throughout the body; (4) the most common source of information about the study used among patients was the Internet; (5) most patients feel safe during a CT scan.