Which type of radiation treatment is considered most dangerous for the nurse?

Sealed internal radiation is considered the most dangerous for the nurse because this type involves the placement of a radioactive source directly inside or next to the tumor, encapsulated in a container. While the encapsulation significantly reduces the risk to external exposure, if the sealed source is compromised upon removal or if it breaks, it poses a high radiation risk to healthcare providers.

In contrast, unsealed internal radiation involves the administration of radioactive substances that circulate throughout the body, with safety protocols focusing mainly on body fluids, which can help mitigate direct exposure to nursing staff. External radiation therapy, on the other hand, primarily exposes the patient to radiation and minimizes harm to nurses if appropriate distance and safety measures are maintained.

Overall, the nature of how sealed internal radiation operates, along with the consequences of potential failure of the containment, renders it the most hazardous for healthcare workers, particularly nurses who are involved in the direct care of patients receiving this type of therapy.