In brachytherapy, how far should visitors maintain distance from the patient?

In brachytherapy, the recommended distance that visitors should maintain from the patient is six feet. This distance is important to minimize radiation exposure to individuals who are not involved in the patient's care. Brachytherapy involves the placement of radioactive materials close to or directly within a tumor, which can result in the emission of radiation that decreases in intensity with distance. By maintaining a six-foot distance, visitors are adequately protected from exposure while allowing them to interact with the patient without excessive risk.

This six-foot guideline is based on the principle of reducing radiation dose, as the intensity of radiation decreases significantly with increased distance due to the inverse square law. It's essential for healthcare providers and family members to follow these safety protocols to ensure that anyone who is not a part of the medical team or treatment plan is not subjected to unnecessary radiation exposure.