A client treated with a cesium implant states feeling isolated. Which response best addresses the client's loneliness?

• A. I will sit with you for 10 minutes each hour.
• B. Do you have a cell phone you can talk to friends and family on?
• C. I'll ask the charge nurse to admit someone to your room for company.
• D. You're scheduled for discharge in 2 days so this isolation will be over soon.

Answer: (B)

When a client is in radiologic isolation for a cesium implant, the goal is to protect others from radiation while still supporting the patient’s emotional needs. Loneliness in this setting can worsen distress, so safe, straightforward ways to reduce isolation are essential. Encouraging the patient to use a personal cell phone to talk with friends and family directly addresses the need for social connection without requiring close contact, preserving safety and the patient’s autonomy. It provides meaningful interaction and real support from loved ones, which can significantly improve mood and coping. Other approaches either involve close person-to-person contact that could violate isolation precautions or assume discharge or in-room companionship without solving the loneliness, so they don’t effectively address the emotional need while maintaining safety.