Cancer precautions Flashcards
1
Q
Immunosuppression
A
Depression of some aspect of the immune system
- decreased WBC, neutrophils, T and B lymphocytes
2
Q
Etiology of immunosuppression
A
- chemotherapy
- radiation therapy
- surgery
- stem cell transplant
- bone marrow transplant
- steroids
- the cancer itself
3
Q
S&S of immunosuppresion
A
Increased risk of:
- opportunistic infections
- weight gane
- diabetes
- HTN
- headaches
- seizures
- bone marrow suppression
4
Q
Neutropenic precautions
A
Contract precausetions for visitors and health care workers. Patients must:
- hand washing
- soft toothbrush
- do not use public toilets, pools, or hot tubs
- avoid raw fruits, veggies, and dairy products
5
Q
Skin changes
A
- skin over the radiated area thins and dies
- redness, blothiness, itching, dryness
- may be delayed, prolonged, with residual thickness and discoloration
6
Q
PT implications
A
- do not rub, scrub, scratch the skin
- avoid temp extremes, no ice or hot packs
- no adhesive on skin
- always protect from sun
7
Q
Guide levels
A
- platelet count < 50,000/mL
- hemoglobin < 10g/dL
- WBC < 3000/mL, <10,000 w/ fever
- absolute granulocytes <500/mL
- otherwise, use vital signs and RPE as indicators of tolerance
