Radiation protection consequences of the care of a terminally ill patient having received a thyroid ablation dose of 131I-sodium iodide.

The death of a patient soon after an ablation dose of 131I-sodium iodide is a rare occurrence. We report a case of a patient who died, following emergency surgery to treat gastric bleeding, whilst still radioactive. The doses received by clinical staff involved in management of the patient were measured and were found to be within acceptable limits. However, there was an appreciable level of unsealed radioactivity in the Intensive Care Unit. The issues raised by this case are discussed in the context of legislative requirements and the worst case scenario. The event highlights the need for close liaison between the different specialities to ensure that clinical staff are properly advised and that necessary safety precautions are taken to avoid compromising the safety of staff or the care of the patient.