Which of the following is NOT a benefit of potassium iodide in radiation safety?

Potassium iodide (KI) serves as a protective agent primarily against radioactive iodine exposure, which is a concern during nuclear incidents or radiological emergencies. The primary mechanism of potassium iodide is to saturate the thyroid gland with stable iodine, thus preventing the uptake of radioactive iodine that can lead to thyroid cancer.

The assertion that potassium iodide provides protection against all types of radioactive materials is incorrect. KI specifically protects the thyroid gland against radioactive iodine, but it does not offer protection from other radioactive materials such as cesium, strontium, or alpha-emitting radionuclides. Hence, stating that it protects against all types is misleading.

The other benefits of potassium iodide, such as the reduction of thyroid cancer risk and the prevention of radioactive iodine absorption by the thyroid gland, are well-documented. However, it does not offer immediate relief from radiation symptoms; rather, its protective effects are preventive, aiming to mitigate further risks associated specifically with iodine uptake in the thyroid.