Taking Contrast Coverage Seriously

Abstract

RADIOLOGY RESIDENT MOONLIGHTING Most residents graduate from medical school with significant debt. As such, moonlighting is a desirable and common aspect of many residency programs. Radiology residency moonlighting opportunities vary in intensity, from the simpler contrast coverage— monitoring for contrast reactions after the administration of contrast agents—to interpreting diagnostic imaging studies, to performing unsupervised invasive procedures [1]. Radiology residents often begin their moonlighting careers with contrast coverage opportunities. In a recent survey of US radiology residency programs, 73% of programs actively encouraged or condoned moonlighting. Of these programs, 73% had contrast coverage opportunities for residents [2]. For contrast coverage, residents are paid to be on site to monitor and treat patients for contrast reactions after the administration of contrast agents. Given the rarity of contrast reactions, most contrast coverage shifts involve little to no stress for moonlighting residents. Unfortunately, this has led to a widespread misconception that a contrast coverage shift involves little to no work. In reality, contrast reactions can be life threatening, and providing contrast coverage is a serious clinical responsibility for which one should be prepared.