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Background: Examinations with computer tomography (CT) with iodinated contrast agents has become more common. The examination can cause anxiety for the patient and variying side effects has been observed. The preparatory information concerning contrast agents is at the same time short.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to compare differences between two hospitals regarding patient anxiety leading up to intravenous administration of iodine contrast agents and any need for expanded information prior to examination. 

Method: The study has a quantative design and the data collection was done using questionnaires that were processesd with descriptive statistics. A total of eighty-six self-designed questionnaires were distributed at two hospitals where patients were chosen based on inclusion and exclusion criteria after a CT examination with contrast. Data was gathered for three weeks with representation being done in text, table and figure.

Results: Results showed a procentualy low anxiety where only 21,6% experienced anxiety “to some extent”. No patient experienced a major anxiety. The greatest factor was getting a intravenous line followed by “something else” that the patients answered in free text. The difference in anxiety between patients who previously had contrast-enhancing side effects compared with those who had not was significant (p = 0,016).

Conclusion: There is some concern in patients who are going to undergo computed tomography examination with iodine contrast agents. The patient doesn’t feel much concern due to lack of preparatory information but 46,1% of patients at one hospital and 18,9% at the other wanted expanded information regarding contrast agents.