Thailand Hospital Prepares Staff for Radioiodine-131 Emergency in Thyroid Cancer Treatment
Thailand’s Department of Medical Services, led by Lampang Cancer Hospital, conducted an emergency preparedness training exercise on March 25, 2026, for medical personnel handling patients receiving iodine-131 radiopharmaceutical treatment. The drill focused on responding to potential crises arising from the treatment of thyroid cancer, a disease often presenting with neck masses and potential spread to lymph nodes or other organs.
According to Dr. Thanin Wetchapinan, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, the initiative aligns with Public Health Minister Phawarat Saengsawan’s policy of “Knowledge for Quality of Life.” The training addresses the need for readiness in managing critical situations that may occur during radioiodine therapy, a common treatment for thyroid cancer following surgical removal of the thyroid gland.
Lampang Cancer Hospital recognized the potential for adverse events during the treatment process and proactively sought to enhance the skills and knowledge of its staff. The exercise aimed to ensure a swift and safe response to any complications that might arise, fostering trust between patients and healthcare providers, stated Dr. Rawin Ingsirotrat, Director of Lampang Cancer Hospital.
The training, organized by the hospital’s Nuclear Medicine Group, specifically addressed the possibility of critical incidents during radioiodine treatment. Participants practiced Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) to review and update their skills in managing patients experiencing cardiac or respiratory arrest. The goal was to ensure personnel could provide effective, appropriate, and rapid assistance in life-threatening situations. The skills learned during the exercise are also applicable to assisting individuals experiencing sudden collapse outside of a hospital setting.
The exercise included practical drills designed to simulate real-world scenarios, allowing medical staff to refine their response protocols and improve coordination. The hospital emphasized the importance of staying current with best practices in emergency medical care to optimize patient safety and outcomes.