Which of the following is an important safety precaution when caring for a patient undergoing internal radiation therapy?

Distance from the patient is a crucial safety precaution when caring for a patient undergoing internal radiation therapy due to the nature of radiation exposure. When patients receive this type of therapy, radioactive materials are placed inside or very close to the tumor. This radiation can emit from the patient and pose a risk to caregivers and visitors. The principle of distance is fundamental in radiation safety: increasing the distance between yourself and the radioactive source decreases exposure to radiation significantly. This aligns with the inverse square law, which states that the intensity of radiation exposure decreases with the square of the distance from the source.

Properly applying this precaution can help ensure that healthcare providers and others in the vicinity minimize their radiation exposure while still being able to provide the necessary care to the patient. The safety of the healthcare team is a priority, and maintaining an appropriate distance helps mitigate the risks associated with radiation exposure. Therefore, this answer emphasizes the importance of spatial awareness and safety in radiation therapy settings.