NCLEX Practice Test

Which action would require the nurse to intervene while supervising a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) caring for clients receiving brachytherapy?

1. LPN who reinforces the purpose of prescribed bed rest for a client with a radium implant for cervical cancer

2. LPN who, when caring for a client with a radium implant, turns away from the client while wearing a lead apron

3. UAP who changes the bed linens of a client with a radium implant and leaves the removed linens in the room

4. UAP who empties the urinal of a client with implanted radioactive seeds for prostate cancer into the toilet

The correct answer is: LPN who reinforces the purpose of prescribed bed rest for a client with a radium implant for cervical cancer

The correct action requiring nurse intervention is the UAP who changes the bed linens of a client with a radium implant and leaves the removed linens in the room. In the context of brachytherapy, which involves placing radioactive materials inside or near the tumor, there are specific safety protocols that must be followed to protect both healthcare providers and other patients from radiation exposure. When linens are changed in a room of a client receiving brachytherapy, it is critical to handle them safely. The radioactive materials can contaminate the linens, so they should be carefully placed in designated containers for hazardous waste or appropriately handled as per the facility's policy regarding radioactive materials. Leaving linens in the room poses a risk of radiation exposure to others, including staff and other patients. In contrast, the other actions, while they require correct practice, do not necessitate intervention. Reinforcing bed rest for clients with an implanted radiation source is appropriate, as it helps to minimize physical activity that could dislodge the implant. The scenario of the LPN turning away while wearing a lead apron indicates proper safety measures are being observed, as lead aprons are used to shield caregivers from radiation during care. The UAP emptying the urinal into the toilet is generally safe practice, as long