Question

While caring for a client with cervical cancer, the nurse notes that the radioactive implant is lying in the bed. The nurse should: A. Place the implant in a biohazard bag and return it to the lab B. Give the client a pair of gloves and ask her to reinsert the implant C. Use tongs to pick up the implant and return it to a lead-lined container D. Discard the implant in the commode and double-flush

Short answer

Answer: The safest and most appropriate course of action is for the nurse to use tongs to pick up the radioactive implant and return it to a lead-lined container. This minimizes exposure to radiation and ensures proper handling of the radioactive material.

Step-by-step solution

Evaluate Option A - Place the implant in a biohazard bag and return it to the lab

Option A suggests placing the implant in a biohazard bag and returning it to the lab. While this may protect the nurse and patient from direct contact with the radioactive implant, it does not address the proper storage and handling of radioactive materials.

Evaluate Option B - Give the client a pair of gloves and ask her to reinsert the implant

Option B suggests asking the client to reinsert the implant. This option is clearly unsafe, as it puts the patient at risk of improperly handling the radioactive material. Additionally, the patient may not possess the knowledge and experience needed to safely reinsert the implant.

Evaluate Option C - Use tongs to pick up the implant and return it to a lead-lined container

Option C recommends using tongs to pick up the implant and return it to a lead-lined container. A lead-lined container is designed for safely storing radioactive materials. By using tongs to handle the implant, the nurse can minimize their exposure to radiation, making this option the safest and most appropriate course of action.

Evaluate Option D - Discard the implant in the commode and double-flush

Option D advises disposing of the implant in the commode and double-flushing. This option poses significant safety risks, as the implant contains radioactive material that should not be flushed down the toilet, potentially contaminating water sources and exposing others to radiation.

Identify the correct answer

After evaluating all options, Option C is the safest and most appropriate course of action for the nurse to take. The nurse should use tongs to pick up the radioactive implant and return it to a lead-lined container, as this minimizes exposure to radiation and ensures proper handling of the radioactive material.

Key concepts

Cervical Cancer Care

Cervical cancer is a significant health concern and proper care is crucial for patient outcomes. One prominent treatment for cervical cancer involves brachytherapy, where radioactive implants are used to destroy cancer cells. It is essential for nurses to understand the specifics of cervical cancer treatments to provide comprehensive and compassionate care.

Detailed and patient-centered approaches include ensuring that the patient is comfortable with the procedure, recognizing signs of complications, such as a dislodged implant, and promptly responding to such situations. In the given scenario, the nurse’s role is critical to maintaining treatment integrity and safety.

Radioactive Implant Safety

The safe handling of radioactive implants is paramount for the protection of both healthcare workers and patients. If an implant is dislodged, stringent safety protocols must be followed. This includes using specialized equipment such as tongs designed for handling radioactive materials and safely securing the implant in a lead-lined container. The material must never be touched directly due to the high risk of radiation exposure.

Best practices for radioactive implant safety require nurses to be trained in proper protocols, wear appropriate protective gear, and strictly adhere to guidelines set forth by radiological health authorities. Handling the implant correctly minimizes radiation exposure and prevents contamination.

Nursing Best Practices

Best practices in nursing encompass a wide range of competencies, but fundamentally, they are about ensuring patient safety and delivering the highest quality of care. Being knowledgeable about the risks and management of treatments, such as radioactive implants in cervical cancer care, reflects the application of best practices in a clinical setting.

Following evidence-based protocols, maintaining clear communication with the healthcare team, and being prepared for emergencies are all integral aspects of nursing best practices. In scenarios involving radioactive safety, nurses must exhibit meticulous attention to procedure and an unwavering commitment to patient safety and ethical care delivery.