Case Study #1 Patient Profile: Name: Sarah Thompson Age: 34 Diagnosis: Hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease Treatment: Scheduled to receive an oral dose of unsealed radioactive iodine (1-131) Clinical Background: Sarah has experienced symptoms of hyperthyroidism for the past 6 months, including weight loss, heat intolerance, palpitations, and anxiety. Her lab results show elevated T3 and T4 levels and suppressed TSH. After unsuccessful management with methimazole, her endocrinologist recommended radioactive iodine therapy. The nurse is conducting discharge teaching for Sarah about unsealed radioactive isotope therapy. Which of the following should the nurse include in her teaching session for Sarah? (Select 3 options)
Explanation & Rationale
A. "Eat foods high in vitamins such as apples, pears, and oranges.": There is no specific dietary restriction related to vitamins following radioactive iodine therapy. The primary focus should be on radiation precautions and post-treatment care, not on specific food choices. B. "Wash your clothing separate from others in the household.": Sarah should wash her clothes separately from others to minimize exposure to radiation. Radioactive iodine can be excreted in sweat, and separation helps reduce exposure to family members. C. "Do not share utensils, plates, and cups with anyone else.": After receiving radioactive iodine therapy, Sarah should avoid sharing utensils, plates, and cups to limit potential exposure to radioactive material. This helps reduce the risk of radiation contamination. D. "You can play with your children for 1 hour each day.": Direct contact with others, especially children, should be minimized after radioactive iodine therapy. Sarah should avoid close contact with children and others to minimize exposure to radiation. E. "Flush the toilet at least 3 times after each use.": To reduce radiation exposure, Sarah should flush the toilet at least three times after each use to ensure that radioactive iodine is effectively cleared from the system. This helps prevent contamination of shared bathroom areas.