Emergency Responses and Disaster Preparedness
Radiation Exposure
Managing radiation injuries requires prioritization of life-threatening trauma before focusing on decontamination.
Clinical Management
- Remove patient from the radiation source and assist in decontamination.
- Treat non-radiological life-threatening injuries first.
- Monitor for Acute Radiation Syndrome: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue within hours.
- Obtain serial CBCs to monitor for lymphopenia (a marker of radiation dose).
Protection Measures
- Utilize time, distance, and shielding principles for staff safety.
- Wear dosimeters to monitor cumulative radiation exposure.
- Isolate contaminated clothing and waste in lead-lined or secure containers.
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