title: Changing practice to prevent contrast-induced nephropathy.
abstract: Based on updated evidence, a radiology nurse systematically engaged a multidisciplinary staff in testing a protocol to prevent contrast-induced nephropathy related to computed tomography. In a quality improvement project, the protocol combined preprocedure oral hydration with postprocedure intravenous saline. This protocol safely improved kidney function, reduced postprocedure time, and decreased annual cost. By applying theory, being persistent, presenting sound evidence, and unifying the team, one concerned staff nurse profoundly affected patient care and policy in an entire medical center.
authors.affiliation: Nursing and Radiology Departments, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, University of California San Francisco, School of Nursing, San Francisco, California. Electronic address: Michele.Yellen@va.gov.
authors.forename: Michele L
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: Yellen
authors.affiliation: Nursing Department, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, University of California San Francisco, School of Nursing, San Francisco, California.
authors.forename: Martha D
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Buffum
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002985:Clinical Protocols / Q000592:standards*; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D005260:Female; D005440:Fluid Therapy / Q000451:nursing*; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D033183:Interdisciplinary Communication; D007674:Kidney Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000451:nursing* / Q000517:prevention & control; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D024802:Nurse's Role; D011871:Radiology / Q000592:standards / Q000639:trends; D012307:Risk Factors; D012965:Sodium Chloride / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000451:nursing*
chemical_list: D003287:Contrast Media; D012965:Sodium Chloride