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PRECAUTIONS FOR LOW WHITE BLOOD COUNTS

White blood cells help your body fight infection. When your white count is low, you are at high risk for infection. It is important that you take the following precautions to minimize your risk and also that you contact our office if you have any of the problems or symptoms that are listed in the box below:

1. Wash your hands often, particularly before you eat, after using the toilet, and after handling pets, or changing diapers. Keep skin and nails clean. Remind your family and guests to wash also.
2. Practice good oral hygiene. Refer to our Mouth Care instruction sheet.
3. Eat a well-balanced diet, drink plenty of fluids, and get lots of rest.
4. Avoid fresh fruits and vegetables unless they have been thoroughly washed and peeled.
5. Avoid crowds and people who are ill.
6. Avoid children who have recently had immunizations.
7. Prevent your hands and skin from becoming too dry. Use lotions often.
8. Clean any cuts or scrapes with warm soap and water.
9. Use gloves to protect your hands when cleaning or gardening.
10. If you have pets, have someone else clean up after them. If you have to do this yourself wear gloves and wash your hands when you are through.
11. Inspect your skin and mouth for any lesions, sores, redness or swelling.
12. Take your temperature 2 or 3 times a day.

NOTIFY US IF YOU HAVE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:

Temperature over 100.5 degrees F

Sore throat

Cough
Shortness of breat
Burning or urgency with urination
Redness, soreness, pain or swelling anywhere on your body

 

Ann Arbor Hematology Oncology Associates, P.C.
734-712-1000
Saint Joseph Mercy Cancer Center
Ypsilanti, Michigan


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