A male client is in isolation after receiving an internal radioactive implant to treat cancer. Two hours later, the nurse discovers the implant in the bed linens. What should the nurse do first?
A. Leave the room and notify the radiation therapy department immediately
B. Put the implant back in place, using forceps and a shield for self-protection, and call for help
C. Pick up the implant with long-handled forceps and place it in a lead-lined container
D. Stand as far away from the implant as possible and call for help
Correct Answer: C. Pick up the implant with long-handled forceps and place it in a lead-lined container
Option C: If a radioactive implant becomes dislodged, the nurse should pick it up with long-handled forceps and place it in a lead-lined container, then notify the radiation therapy department immediately. The highest priority is to minimize radiation exposure for the client and the nurse; therefore, the nurse must not take any action that delays implant removal.
Options A, B, and D: Standing as far from the implant as possible, leaving the room with the implant still exposed, or attempting to put it back in place can greatly increase the risk of harm to the client and the nurse from excessive radiation exposure.
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