Chapter 24: Radionuclide therapy
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Post‐procedural considerations
Ongoing care
Discharge of patient
Patients are usually discharged on the day of completion of brachytherapy. All patients must void after removal of applicators and vaginal packing.
Patients can sometimes be unsteady on their feet after prolonged bedrest and may require assistance. They should be informed that normal bowel actions may not return for a day or so; advice on managing diarrhoea or constipation should be given. Light spotting or discharge from the vagina is normal and should be discussed with patients to prevent any unnecessary concerns once at home. If patients experience pain or any more marked bleeding, hospital staff should be contacted immediately. Symptoms of urinary tract infection such as dysuria and/or elevated temperature should also be reported and a plan of care established prior to discharge. Contact numbers should be provided on who to call if any issues arise post discharge.