ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

Which method is used to reduce the viscosity of contrast media?

1. Warming

2. Refrigeration

3. Storage at normal room temperature

4. Storage in a cool, dry place

The correct answer is: Refrigeration

The method used to reduce the viscosity of contrast media is warming. By increasing the temperature of the contrast agent, the molecules gain kinetic energy, which allows them to move more freely and reduces the force of attraction between them. This decrease in viscosity makes the contrast media easier to inject and can improve the overall imaging process. Refrigeration, on the other hand, would increase the viscosity of the contrast medium, making it thicker and more difficult to inject. Storage at normal room temperature may not necessarily impact viscosity positively, as it depends on the specific type of contrast media and whether it has been stored properly before use. Storing in a cool, dry place generally does not affect viscosity significantly either, as it typically refers to maintaining appropriate storage conditions rather than adjusting the contrast's physical properties directly. Therefore, warming is the most effective method for reducing the viscosity of contrast media.