Patient Education Cancer Care | Page 26

Hygiene
Activity
• Do not eat foods from buffets , salad bars , or bulk food bins .
• Eat a well-balanced diet , and drink plenty of fluids . Do not drink well water .
There is no single food or drink that will increase your white blood cell count .
Call your doctor ’ s office if you have any of these symptoms :
• A temperature by mouth of 100.5 ° F ( 38.1 ° C ).
— Take your temperature twice a day while your white blood cell count is low and if you are feeling poorly .
— Do not take any over-the-counter medication that may lower your temperature unless directed to do so by your doctor . This includes aspirin , Tylenol ® , Advil ® , Nuprin ® , Motrin ® , and many cold and flu preparations .
• Any signs of infection : redness , heat , swelling , pus , or pain
• Chills or shaking
• Sore throat or mouth , with or without white patches
• Cough , with or without mucus
• Pain or burning when passing urine
• Cloudy or bloody urine , with or without a foul odor
If you have any questions or concerns , ask your nurse or call your doctor ’ s office .

Thrombocytopenia

Platelets are blood cells that allow your blood to clot . Your doctor may tell you that you have a low platelet count . This is also called thrombocytopenia and puts you at an increased risk of bleeding . You will need to take measures to prevent bleeding . Your nurse may call these “ bleeding precautions .”

Hygiene

• Use only a soft toothbrush . If you have gum bleeding , use mouth swabs instead of a toothbrush .
• Use an electric razor instead of a razor blade if possible , especially if your platelet count is less than 20,000 .
• Wear shoes at all times .
• Blow your nose gently .
• Avoid using enemas , rectal thermometers , and suppositories . Women should not use tampons , vaginal suppositories , or douches .

Activity

• Avoid tight-fitting clothing such as skirts or slacks with tight waistbands .
• Don ’ t use sharp knives or work with sharp blades .
• Use gloves when gardening .
• Avoid contact sports such as football or hockey .
• Change positions slowly . Sit on the edge of your bed 1 or 2 minutes before you stand . If you are unsteady on your feet , ask for help each time you want to stand or walk .
• Although sexual intercourse is not restricted , use a water-based lubricant such as K-Y ® Jelly if needed .
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