Hospital staff use a variety of protective measures during iodine-131 (I-131) treatments to minimize their exposure to radiation and ensure safety for themselves, patients, and others in the facility. These measures include specialized facility design, personal protective equipment (PPE), remote monitoring technologies, strict handling protocols, and hygiene practices.
First, the treatment is typically administered in a purpose-built radionuclide therapy unit designed with heavy shielding. Walls are often made of thick concrete reinforced with steel rebar—sometimes around 200 mm thick—to block radiation from escaping patient rooms. This containment protects hospital staff working nearby as well as other patients and visitors. Patient rooms usually have an anteroom that acts as a buffer zone between the radioactive environment inside and the rest of the hospital[1].
During administration, I-131 is given orally in capsule form rather than liquid to reduce risks such as accidental spills or contamination during handling. Trained nuclear medicine technicians handle these capsules carefully using tools like tongs or forceps to avoid direct contact. Staff wear PPE including gloves, lab coats or gowns resistant to contamination, sometimes face shields or masks if there is any risk of aerosolized particles[1].
To further reduce direct exposure from close contact with treated patients—who emit radiation while their bodies process I-131—the facility employs remote monitoring systems. Cameras combined with radiation detectors are installed inside patient rooms so nurses can observe patients without entering frequently. Radiation levels near each patient’s bed are continuously measured by Geiger-Müller detectors placed above beds; this data is displayed on monitors outside the room for real-time assessment without physical presence[1]. Area monitors outside room doors alert staff if any unexpected radiation levels occur.
Strict hygiene protocols help prevent spread of radioactive contamination via bodily fluids like urine or sweat since I-131 is excreted over several days after treatment. Hospital staff use designated bathrooms connected directly to patient rooms when possible and follow rigorous cleaning procedures using appropriate decontaminants safe for radioactive iodine removal (avoiding chlorine bleach which can release harmful iodine gas). They also wear disposable shoe covers or slippers within these areas[2].
Staff education plays a key role: personnel receive training on safe handling techniques for radiopharmaceuticals including proper storage, transport within shielded containers called lead pots or piggys, minimizing time spent near sources of radiation (time), maximizing distance from them (distance), and using shielding barriers whenever possible—these principles collectively known as ALARA (“As Low As Reasonably Achievable”)[1][2].
Additionally:
– Patients are isolated during treatment stays in single rooms designed specifically for radioiodine therapy.
– Staff limit physical contact duration; interactions such as administering medication happen quickly but safely.
– Waste materials contaminated by radioiodine—including used gloves, gowns, bed linens—are handled according to strict radioactive waste disposal regulations.
– Monitoring devices check hands and feet after contact with treated patients before leaving isolation areas.
In summary: hospitals combine architectural safeguards like shielded rooms; procedural controls such as oral capsule administration; personal protection gear; advanced remote sensing technology; rigorous hygiene standards; specialized training on radiological safety principles; controlled waste management—all aimed at protecting healthcare workers from unnecessary exposure while maintaining high-quality care during iodine-131 treatments.
