Final answer:
The nurse will advise the client to not share utensils, use a bedside commode, possibly remain isolated as instructed by a healthcare provider, and to not limit fluid intake. These instructions are to limit radiation exposure to others and facilitate the elimination of radioactive iodine from the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
A nurse who has administered oral radioactive iodine to a client with thyroid cancer will provide specific instructions to mitigate the risks associated with radiation exposure. Upon discharge, the client will be advised to take precautions that limit radiation exposure to others. These precautions may include not sharing utensils with family members and using a bedside commode for elimination needs. Isolation may be recommended until the healthcare provider instructs otherwise. Given that radioactive iodine has a half-life of approximately 8 days and is concentrated in the thyroid, precautions typically last until the radioactive iodine is sufficiently eliminated from the body, which can take several weeks.
Clients are also informed that they will set off radiation detectors at airports during this period. To manage this, they should plan to get special permission to fly on commercial flights. Clients should maintain good hydration to assist in the elimination of the radioactive material; thus, they are not instructed to limit their fluid intake unless advised for other medical reasons.