A low white blood cell count puts you at a risk for developing an infection. It occurs 7-14 days after each chemotherapy treatment. Your doctor may prescribe G-CSF (Neupogen®) to minimize this effect. This drug is given by injection, usually at home by the patient or a family member, on specific days after a chemotherapy treatment. If you are to receive this drug, your doctor or nurse will instruct you on how to administer it. Self-Care Measures:
- Practice good hygiene, e.g., wash your hands after using the toilet.
- Protect your hands from cuts and burns.
- Wear gloves when doing dishes, cooking, or gardening.
- Use moisturizer on your skin to avoid cracks.
- Monitor your temperature every four hours if you feel feverish, (particularly 7-14 days after treatment). This should be done by mouth, since using a rectal thermometer can increase your chances of infection.
- If you have a cut, clean it with soap and water immediately and watch for signs of infection (redness, swelling, discharge from the wound). If signs of infection develop, contact your physician.
Things to Avoid:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) (Speak to your nurse/physician before taking this medication.)
- People with infectious diseases (e.g., chickenpox, tuberculosis, measles), especially children, who are likely to be exposed to them
- Crowed areas (e.g., shopping malls, auditoriums, theaters, subways) (This is especially important during the period after treatment when your counts are lowest.)
- The use of tampons
Contact your physician or nurse if you have:
- Any signs of infection (i.e., fever, redness, swelling, discharge from a wound).
- Oral temperature above 100.3° F (38°C).
- Chills with or without fever.
