 Contrast media is a substance utilized to aid in the visualization of structures and vessels not seen under normal medical imaging.  Comes in the form of many different solutions and characteristics  Utilized in all imaging modalities such as CT and MRI  Has the potential to cause allergic reactions with patients as well as their medications and medical conditions  Reactions range from mild to severe

 To inform readers of the potential risks of injecting contrast media into patients with diabetes  To inform readers of signs and symptoms to look for when contrast media is utilized  To inform readers of ways to avoid severe complications by obtaining adequate patient information

Is it safe to inject a contrast agent into a patient with diabetes? This will be the main theme throughout the study  Research Question One: What are the risks and benefits of utilizing a contrast agent?  Research Question Two: How is the agent administered?  Research Question Three: What are the side effects and reactions?  Research Question Four: How are patients with diabetes prepared for contrast examinations?  Research Question Five: Can patients with other kidney disorders be given contrast media?

 All patients pose the potential risk of experiencing reactions to contrast media  Diabetic patients especially should be properly informed and prepped for contrast examinations  Patients taking Metformin are unable to consume the medication while taking part in procedures involving contrast media due to the formation of a lethal condition known as lactic acidosis

 Quantitative Research Design  Data will be collected by means of verbal interview, observation, and background research performed by a radiologic technologist  Study will involve a convenience sample of participants diagnosed with diabetes taking part in procedures involving contrast media. The sample will be taken from a radiology department within a local hospital.  Inferential statistics will potentially determine the relationship between diabetes and contrast media.

 Data will be analyzed and the information will determine that: diabetic patients can successfully complete a contrast media examination without contraindications; obtaining an accurate medical history can potentially save lives; close observation offers quick reaction when needed.  It can also be determined that: mild reactions can be experienced; discontinuing Metformin forty-eight hours post procedure decreases the development of lactic acidosis; severe reactions can be life-threatening.