White blood cells help protect the body by fighting bacteria that cause infection. If your white blood cell count is low, it is important to protect yourself against infection. When your white blood count is low, your own body can be the source of infection. White blood cell count with differential provides the information about your white blood cells.
Your goals
- Recognize signs of infection.
- Get professional help when needed.
Important signs and symptoms to report to your doctor or nurse
- Shaking or chills
- Cough
- Temperature 100.9 ºF or higher
- Sore throat
- A general feeling of tiredness or “flu-like” symptoms
- Painful or frequent urination
What you can do at home
- Examine your mouth and skin for signs of infection. Exercise excellent mouth care. See Mouth Pain/ Mucositis information sheet.
- Brush your teeth after each meal and at bedtime. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and be careful to avoid injuring the gums. Avoid use of mouthwashes which contain alcohol or peroxide.
- Keep your skin clean, and avoid cuts and scratches. Report any changes in skin including rashes, sores, and cuts.
- Wash hands frequently.
- Wear rubber gloves when washing dishes.
- Shave with an electric razor.
- Use moisturizing lotion for dry skin.
- If you have hemorrhoids, ask your nurse or doctor for advice before you self-treat.
- Check with your nurse or doctor before having dental work performed. It may be necessary to take antibiotics before dental procedures to prevent infection.
