A radium implant is found in the bed of a client being treated for cervical cancer. What is the appropriate action for the nurse to take?

Rationale: A. Covering the implant does not prevent radiation exposure. Radium emits ionizing radiation, which can be harmful to both the patient and healthcare workers. Simply covering it is not a safe or effective response. B. The appropriate action is to use long-handled forceps to avoid direct contact and place the implant in a lead-lined container to shield from radiation. This protects the nurse from radiation exposure while safely securing the radioactive source. Afterward, the physician or radiation safety officer should be notified immediately. C. Ignoring a loose radium implant is extremely unsafe. Exposure to the radioactive source can cause serious radiation injury. Immediate action is required; it cannot wait until the next routine visit. D. Handling the radium implant with bare hands exposes the nurse to dangerous levels of radiation and is contraindicated. Proper shielding and tools must always be used.