Clinicians' Control Preferences Regarding Prevention of Contrast Agent Reactions

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the control preferences of clinicians working in a regional hospital to prevent contrast agent reactions.

Materials and Methods: This study investigated through a questionnaire the role preferred by 75 participant specialist physicians working in two local hospitals regarding prevention of contrast agent reactions. The questionnaire form included five different items consisting of modified forms of preferences found in control preferences scale (Degner et al., 1997). These items were as follows: A, I prefer to make a decision as a clinician; B, I prefer to make a decision as a clinician but should get radiologist's opinion; C, Radiologist and I should make a decision together. The ideas of the two of us are equally important; D, The radiologist should make a decision but after getting my opinion; E, I prefer the radiologist to make a decision. Participants were asked to specify their primary (the most preferred) and secondary (subsequent) preferences.

Results: The results of the statistical analysis indicated that females showed more equalitarian approach when compared to males (43.3% versus 15.6%, P < 0.005). Also, the physicians in internal medicine branches showed more equalitarian approach when compared to the physicians in surgical branches (37.8% versus 15.8%, P < 0.01)

Conclusion: When we attempt to establish a clinical guideline committee towards preventing reactions to contrast agents, involvement of physicians exhibiting cooperative attitude in the committee will facilitate communication, and thereby improve group performance.