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Working safely around implanted radiation sources

Journal Article · · Nursing (Jenkintown, Pa.); (United States)
The article is concerned with patients in whom applicators containing cesium have been vaginally or cervically implanted. In working with such patients, radiation exposure to the attendant can be minimized in several ways: working as far as possible from the radiation source; using a lead shield between patient and attendant; reducing time spent near the patient as much as possible. Film badges and pocket dosimeters indicate levels of radiation to which workers are exposed; more than 400 mrem/month requires investigation by a Radiation Safety Officer. Pregnant attendants should not be assigned to care for patients with sealed radiation sources. Special precautions involving visitors and room assignments are discussed. Various aspects of caring for the patients are detailed. Six informative tables have information about the following: general guide to total time a person may spend with a patient containing a cesium radiation source; equipment for insertion of two types of sources and for removal; general precautions; notes for inserting Fletcher after-loaders, cesium molds and removing cesium.
OSTI ID:
6670166
Journal Information:
Nursing (Jenkintown, Pa.); (United States), Journal Name: Nursing (Jenkintown, Pa.); (United States) Vol. 6:5; ISSN NURSB
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English