What is a standard preventive measure when administering iodinated contrast to reduce risk of reaction?

• A. Avoid hydration
• B. Premedication with steroids/antihistamines and ensuring hydration
• C. Use twice the dose to confirm visibility
• D. Cease imaging if any reaction occurs

Answer: (B)

Premedication with steroids and antihistamines along with ensuring adequate hydration is a standard approach to reduce risk when iodinated contrast is used. Steroids help dampen the inflammatory and immune-mediated components of potential hypersensitivity reactions, while antihistamines blunt histamine-driven symptoms such as itching or hives. Hydration supports kidney perfusion and helps clear the contrast more efficiently, lowering the chance of contrast-induced nephropathy and related inflammatory effects. This combination addresses both systemic reactions and kidney protection, making it the most effective preventive strategy. Doubling the dose would heighten risk, and stopping imaging after a reaction occurs is a reactive step, not a preventive measure.