A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving brachytherapy for endometrial cancer.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Place the client's soiled bed linens in a biohazard bag outside the client's room.
Wear an isolation gown when caring for the client.
Keep visitors at least 6 feet (1.8 m) away from the client.
Discard the radioactive source in the client's trash can.
The Correct Answer is C
Answer is c. Keep visitors at least 6 feet (1.8 m) away from the client.
a. Place the client's soiled bed linens in a biohazard bag outside the client's room: While it is essential to follow standard precautions for handling potentially contaminated linens, soiled bed linens from a client undergoing brachytherapy do not require special handling in a biohazard bag unless contaminated with blood or bodily fluids. Brachytherapy involves the internal placement of radioactive sources near or within the tumor site, but the risk of contamination from bodily fluids is minimal. Therefore, soiled linens can be managed according to standard facility protocols for handling linens.
b. Wear an isolation gown when caring for the client: This option is incorrect because wearing an isolation gown is not necessary for radiation safety during brachytherapy. Radiation exposure is primarily managed through the use of lead aprons, gloves, and other shielding devices when directly handling radioactive sources or being in close proximity to the client during treatment sessions. Isolation gowns are typically used to prevent the spread of infection and are not specifically designed to shield against radiation exposure.
c. Keep visitors at least 6 feet (1.8 m) away from the client: Correct. This action minimizes radiation exposure to visitors, as brachytherapy involves the internal placement of radioactive material near or within the tumor site. Maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet (1.8 meters) from the client helps reduce the risk of radiation exposure to visitors while allowing them to provide support and companionship to the client. Visitors should also be informed about radiation safety precautions and instructed to limit their time spent near the client during treatment.
d. Discard the radioactive source in the client's trash can: This option is incorrect because radioactive sources used in brachytherapy must be handled and disposed of by trained personnel following established radiation safety protocols. Disposing of radioactive material in a client's regular trash can poses significant risks of exposure to others and is not permitted. Proper disposal procedures for radioactive sources involve packaging them in approved containers and returning them to the facility's radiation safety department for appropriate disposal or recycling.
In summary, the correct answer is c because keeping visitors at least 6 feet (1.8 meters) away from the client helps minimize their radiation exposure during brachytherapy, which involves the internal placement of radioactive material near or within the tumor site. This action aligns with radiation safety principles and helps protect both the client and visitors from unnecessary radiation exposure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Explanation: Sweet potato is a food that is high in potassium, which is an electrolyte that regulates fluid balance, nerve impulses, and muscle contractions in the body. A medium- sized sweet potato contains about 541 mg of potassium, which is more than 10% of the recommended daily intake for adults. Baked chicken breast, wheat bread, and canned green beans are foods that are low or moderate in potassium, containing less than 300 mg per serving.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Acknowledging the difficulty of caring for a terminally ill person is empathetic, but it doesn't offer a solution to the son's problem. The nurse should provide practical assistance or information to help alleviate the son's stress and fatigue.
Choice B rationale:
(Correct Choice) Offering information about respite care is appropriate in this situation. Respite care provides temporary relief to caregivers, allowing them to take a break from their caregiving responsibilities. Providing information about available resources can empower the son to make decisions that support his well-being and the well-being of his mother.
Choice C rationale:
Suggesting a sleeping pill before bed might not be appropriate without a healthcare provider's assessment. Additionally, relying on medication alone might not address the underlying stress and fatigue the son is experiencing.
Choice D rationale:
Praising the son for his caregiving efforts is supportive, but it doesn't offer a solution to his lack of sleep. While encouragement and recognition are important, addressing the son's immediate need for rest and support should be the priority.
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