Student National open university of Nigeria Owerri, Imo, Nigeria
Radioactive materials can be considered as nuclear materials which can pose the health of patients, nurses and other health professionals at risk. This topic will discuss and highlight some of the nuclear materials that are utilized in the hospital and how to manage those materials to minimize future hazards and complications in the life of healthcare workers and patients Some of these radioactive materials include the following: 1. Technetium-99m (Tc-99m): Technetium is a radioactive material commonly used for medical diagnostic studies e.g. X-ray. It is used to visualize the body and its organs to detect anomalies The half-life of technetium is about 6hours. 2. Iodine-131 (1-131): This is a radioactive material that was discovered by Glenn Seaborg and John Living good in 1938 at the University of California. This substance is used specifically for treating thyroid diseases such as hyperthyroidism.The half-life is 8days. 3. Fluorine: It is a substance that aides in protecting our teeth. Excessive use of fluorine can cause tooth decay. The half-life of fluorine is 110 minutes.
How to manage nuclear materials in the hospital 1. Personal protective equipment (PPE): All healthcare professionals should protect themselves before coming in contact with a patient exposed to some radioactive elements. This can be achieved by putting on some personal protective materials such as lead aprons, lead gloves, and radiation resistant eye wear. 2. Storage: Storing radioactive Materials is so essential. These materials can be stored in locked refrigerators, freezers & cabinets. 3. Labeling: The materials should be labeled clearly with their names and universal radioactive symbols attached. 4. Disposal: These materials should be dispose through burning/incineration and burying. 5. Spill Response: Once a radioactive materials spill on the floor, the area should be cleared of people. While the spilled substance should be covered as soon as possible.
