An audit into the use of intravascular contrast media in Scotland. The Audit Committee of the Scottish Radiological Society and the Scottish Standing Committee of the Royal College of Radiologists.

A survey was conducted into the use of intravascular contrast media within Scotland during 1993-4 auditing the period from April 1992 to March 1993. The first phase of the study examined the use of low osmolar contrast media and high osmolar contrast media and this obtained a 100% response rate. All users were found to adhere to Royal College of Radiologists guidelines, but as an incidental finding, only 87% recorded adverse reactions and a separate register was not always maintained. A second follow-up questionnaire was issued to examine specifically the recording of adverse reactions. A 96% response rate was obtained. Although all departments recorded adverse reactions in some form, only 13% kept a separate register. Recommendations are made that all departments should maintain a separate adverse reaction register and that there should be standardisation of the grading of reactions. Annual returns to a central body are also recommended.