Is it safe to work as a social worker in a radiation oncology cancer unit while pregnant?

Notify staff: Your facility likely has internal standards and rules re: workers who are pregnant, and what (if any) restrictions need to be done. Avoid exposure to the treatment machinery, as well as close contact with patients who have indwelling sources of radiation ("seeds").

Yes: Radiation oncologists deliver external beam radiation therapy. The radiation is only present when the beam is turned on and is only present where the beam is aimed. Once the patients come out of the room, they do not emit any radiation and cannot pose a threat to you or your fetus. You should not go into a room when the beam is on. You should avoid pts recently treated with radioactive iodine.

Yes: You should expect no exposure risk from treatment machines. Radioactive sources and patients with implanted radiation are secured and protected from personnel. Feel safe & ask your radiation safety officer for peace of mind!

Yes: There is no "stray" radiation in the department.