Purpose: This retrospective study determined the measured radiation exposure to family Caregiver (FCG) and Health Care Providers (HCP) who cared for patients receiving 131I-MIBG therapy during hospital admissions during year one of operation.
Methods: Design of our new 131I-MIBG therapy suite was guided by Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) regulations for occupational exposure to the general public (non- NEW). Special attention was paid to the urine drainage system. HCP completed mandatory class instruction and online education modules on caring for 131I-MIBG patients. FCG were provided with radiation safety education from a Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) and Neuroblastoma team. ALARA principles were a key component to the education programs. 131I-MIBG therapy was administered to 12 children (13 treatments) (average age 8, range 3-14 years) for relapsed and refractory neuroblastoma.Direct read dosimeters were used to measure radiation exposure to the FCG and HCP from radioisotope administration until discharge.
Results: The administered activity ranged from 8.51 to 32.23 GBq (average 18.13 GBq). The average FCG exposure for 13 treatments was 0.309 mSv (range 0.028 to 0.947 mSv per FCG). The average HCP exposure was 0.038 mSv with a range from 0 to 0.165 per treatment. Length of stay was between 4 and 10 days (mean 8 days). Average length of stay is longer than comparable 131I-MIBG programs outside Canada.
Discussion: Length of stay was dependent on CNSC requirements, pre-determined discharge levels, distance and travel requirements and family housing conditions. Exposure to HCP and FCG was well below CNSC regulatory limits and considerably less than that reported from other comparable institutions. The design of our facility enhanced shielding and unique urine drainage system likely contributed to the very low exposure for caregivers.