What should a radiographer check if a patient has a known allergy to iodine?

In situations where a patient has a known allergy to iodine, it is crucial for a radiographer to check the patient's prior exposure history to iodine-based contrast agents, as this information can significantly impact the safety and planning of the imaging procedure. Knowledge of any past allergic reactions, including the severity and type, enables the radiographer to take necessary precautions or consider alternative imaging methods that do not involve iodinated contrast.

Understanding the patient's previous experiences can inform decisions on pre-medication protocols or the selection of non-iodinated contrast agents if needed. This proactive assessment helps in minimizing the risk of an allergic reaction during the imaging process and ensures patient safety.