Final answer:
A pregnant nurse should limit exposure time, maintain distance from the source, use shielding, adhere to disposal protocols, and monitor exposure with a dosimeter. Reassignment to non-radiation areas is highly advisable.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a pregnant nurse is working in a setting where a client is receiving internal radiation therapy for thyroid cancer, several precautionary measures should be taken to protect both the nurse and the developing fetus. Radiation can be particularly harmful to rapidly dividing cells, which include those in embryos, hence extra care must be taken.
First, the nurse should limit exposure time to the radiation source and maintain as much distance as possible from the source when attending to the patient. Secondly, appropriate shielding should be utilized, such as lead aprons or screens, to minimize any potential radiation exposure. The nurse should also adhere to facility protocols for handling and disposal of any radioactive materials or waste, which includes wearing protective gloves and other personal protective equipment (PPE). It is also advised to monitor exposure levels regularly with the use of a dosimeter, which tracks cumulative radiation exposure over time.
If there are concerns about radiation exposure, the nurse should consult with the facility's radiation safety officer or occupational health services. As a precaution, pregnant healthcare workers are often advised not to work in high-radiation areas. Therefore, reassigning the pregnant nurse to another area where there is no risk of radiation exposure would be the most advisable and preemptive action to take.