A nurse is caring for a client with cervical cancer who is receiving intracavitary brachytherapy with a sealed radioactive implant. Upon entering the room, the nurse discovers that the radioactive applicator has dislodged and is lying on the bed linens. Which of the following is the priority nursing action?
- AInstruct the unlicensed assistive personnel to carefully cover the applicator with a lead apron.
- BImmediately evacuate the client from the room, close the door, and notify the radiation safety officer.
- Use long-handled forceps to retrieve the applicator and place it into the lead-lined container.Answer
- DDon double gloves to pick up the applicator and secure it inside a red biohazard bag.
Answer
The priority action is to use the long-handled forceps to retrieve the applicator and place it into the lead-lined container.
The correct answer is to use the long-handled forceps to place the implant into the lead-lined container. When a client receives sealed internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy), a lead-lined container and long-handled forceps must be kept in the client's room at all times. If the implant becomes dislodged, the priority action is to minimize radiation exposure by immediately utilizing the principles of distance and shielding. The nurse should use the forceps to pick up the radioactive source and place it in the lead container, never touching it directly.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Management of a dislodged sealed radioactive source (Brachytherapy)
Estimated Time:1m 0s