Which action is an appropriate safety measure in caring for a patient with an internal radiation implant when a pregnant coworker is present?

• A. Limit time with the patient to 1 hour per shift
• B. Do not allow pregnant women into the room
• C. Remove the dosimeter badge when entering the room
• D. Individuals younger than 16 years old may enter the room as long as they are 6 feet away

Answer: (B)

When a patient has an internal radiation implant, protecting others from ionizing radiation is the priority, especially a pregnant coworker whose fetus is more vulnerable to radiation exposure. The most protective approach is to keep a pregnant staff member out of the room altogether to prevent any fetal dose from the implant. This decision reflects the goal of minimizing exposure as much as reasonably achievable and often aligns with workplace policies that reassign or exclude pregnant personnel from radiation areas.

Limiting time in the room can reduce exposure but does not eliminate the risk, and removing the dosimeter badge would defeat essential monitoring of any exposure that does occur. Allowing someone under 16 to enter—even at a distance—does not guarantee safety and is not appropriate for radiation safety in this context.