ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

What symptoms are associated with a respiratory reaction to contrast media?

1. Sneezing and hoarseness

2. Wheezing and coughing

3. Hoarseness and wheezing

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: Hoarseness and wheezing

The symptoms associated with a respiratory reaction to contrast media include wheezing and coughing. Wheezing is a high-pitched sound that occurs when the airways are narrowed or obstructed, typically indicating bronchospasm or airway irritation. Coughing is a reflex action that helps clear the airways of mucus or irritants, and it can be triggered by the inhalation of contrast material or a respiratory response to an allergic reaction. While sneezing and hoarseness may occur in other contexts, such as upper respiratory irritations or allergies, they are not specific indicators of a respiratory reaction to contrast media. In the context of a contrast media reaction, it is primarily the wheezing and coughing that serve as significant clinical indicators. This focus on wheezing and coughing is crucial for healthcare providers as these symptoms necessitate prompt recognition and intervention to ensure patient safety and to manage any potential anaphylactic reactions effectively.