NMHS INFUSION ONCOLOGY

When to call your doctor:                                                                

• Any changes in your present condition lasting for more than a day

• A temperature of 100.5 or higher, or chills and sweats

• Nausea/ vomiting or diarrhea lasting longer than 24 hours and/or not responding to medications.

• Shortness of breath

• Mouth sores or soreness

• Any unusual pain or pain that is not controlled with medications.

• Any unusual bleeding or bruising

Infection Prevention:

• Wash hands with soap and water often. Especially after using the restroom, before eating, and if hands are visibly soiled.

• Stay away from crowds.

• Ask people not to come around if they have been or may be sick.

• Do not handle animal waste or live plants in soil.

• Do not eat or drink after other people.

• Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.

• Do not eat undercooked meat, fish, or eggs.   

Mouth Care:

• Use a new soft toothbrush, brush 2-3 times/day

• Keep dentures and partials clean and in a new clean denture cup when not using.

• Do not use commercial mouthwashes containing alcohol

• Avoid foods and drinks very hot in temperature, foods that are spicy, and foods that are course textured or rough.

• Mouth Rinse Recipe:

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp baking soda

  • 8 oz glass of water

  • Rinse mouth with water frequently (every 2 hrs while awake & when awake during the night).

Chemo safety:

For 48 hours after each treatment, patient and caregiver should:

• Patient should close lid and flush toilet twice after using the restroom and clean any spills with soap and water.

• Linens, Clothing, or Equipment that is exposed to patient’s urine, stool, or vomitus should be handled with gloves, gloves should be removed before touching anything else, and hands washed with soap and water.

• Skin that comes in contact with contaminated body fluids should be washed thoroughly with soap and water.

• Absorbable undergarments, such as adult briefs, should be placed in a sealed plastic bag prior to disposal.

• Use of barrier protection methods such as a condom is recommended for sexual intercourse to prevent exposure to body fluids.

For any questions or concerns:

Notify your oncologist’s office at (662)-377-4550 and leave a message for a nurse. A nurse will return your call as soon as possible.  If after hours call Nurselink at (662)-377-3007 or 1-800-882-6274.