radiation

[SHIRLEEN VANOCKER]

I need some help on this one. What is the process for decontamination of instruments that have been exposed to radioactive products during a sentinal node biopsy? Are there state guidelines to be followed or is this a federal regulation? Is there any regulation at all? I have been told to quarantine for 24 hours and also told no special precautions are needed. Any information anyone could provide would really be appreciated!!

[davidds91]

Shirleen,
At my hospital, we have no special handling requirements for the items you mentioned. The radioactive dye that is used is harmeless from we have been told. It would have to be if they are injecting into living human flesh. In any case, you actually receive more radiation every day from simply standing in the sun. So, just follow your SOP for handling contaminated items and you should be fine. As for federal regulations, I could find none. I assume the reason is that this type of radiocative material is harmless the way it used and stored. :cool:

[SHIRLEEN VANOCKER]

David, thank you for the input. I was not able to find anything in state , OSHA, federal. If you do come across anything in the future, please let me know, I would appreciate it. Thanks again. Shirleen

[David Freeman]

Shirleen,

If your hospital handles radioactive materials, you should have a radiation safety officer, probably in the imaging services or oncology department. That person would be the most knowledgeable about proper handling of anything that glows.

[SHIRLEEN VANOCKER]

Thank you...I will check this out!

[davidds91]

Your welcome Shirleen. Also, because this is a substance that is injected into the body, the regulating authority is the US Food and Drug Administration. Go to their web site and search for your subject there. www.fda.gov
:rolleyes:

[SHIRLEEN VANOCKER]

Thanks for the help. I found more info in this web site, but still no regs concerning instrument decontam. I'll keep looking.