Contrast-associated acute kidney injury in elderly; mini-review on nursing prospectives

Abstract

Contrast medium is used daily for accurate and effective diagnostic procedures. They are often necessary to provide an exact diagnosis and are almost safe and effective when used correctly. However contrast media can sometimes be life-threatening especially in elderly, since the elderly suffer from several problems. Aging is frequently accompanied by chronic diseases like chronic renal failure, comorbidity, frailty and disability. Therefore, it is important to know how reactions to contrast agents manifest and how to manage them immediately. Decreased kidney functions are sometimes seen after intravenous contrast media injection therefore radiologists should monitor all stages of the contrast injection. Accordingly, the medical team should have information on the complications, prevention and care of the patients under contrast media.