Question

Question 7: Multiple Choice- 10 points

The RN is caring for a client with a radium implant for treatment of cervical cancer. T0 care for this client, the RN should:

a. Limit time spent in the room to 30 minutes each shift.

b. Require that all family members wear a lead apron.

c. Keep the used linen in the room until the implant is removed.

d. Monitor the client’s output in the bedside commode.

Response

Rationale

Answer 1

Internal radium implantation is the brachytherapy method for internal radiation used to treat cervical cancer. There are two types of implants sealed sources and unsealed sources. The sealed sources are radioactive when it is inside the body and the body fluids will not be radioactive but when the patient is implanted with unsealed sources, the body fluids will be radioactive and the patient may be radioactive for few days even after the implant is removed.

The rule of thumb for radiation safety time, distance, and shielding. Reduce your time exposed, 6 ft or more distance during exposure or use of oral conversation from doorway and use of lead apron, and lead gloves during direct care.

The RN should advise the family members to reduce the time of visit and to keep a distance of 6 feet or more while inside patients room. The linens should be kept in linen bag or the provided radioactive waste box inside the room until the patient is discharged( until radiation survey completed), the urine should not be stored in commodes because it will be radioactive and advise the patient not to share toilet and flush at least 2 times after voiding. The RN should limit the time of care to 30 minute to reduce the exposure.

Thus the answer is a. Limit time spent in the room to 30 minutes each shift.