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Infection
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"I need to be extra careful to stay away from germs that could make me sick.
I wash my hands well before meals.
When I can't wash my hands with water, I use a hand sanitizer before I eat." |
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To order free copies of this fact sheet, please call
1-800-422-6237 (1-800-4-CANCER). |
- Check with your doctor or nurse before you take any medicine. This includes aspirin, acetaminophen (such as Tylenol®), or ibuprofen
(such as Advil®).
- Check with your doctor or nurse before you get any shot or vaccine.
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- Fever that is 100.5° F (38° C) or higher. Ask how many times a day you should take your temperature.
- Chills
- Cough or sore throat
- Ear pain
- Headache or bad sinus pain
- Stiff or sore neck
- Bloody or cloudy urine
- Pain or burning when you urinate
- Skin rash
- Sores or white coating in your mouth or on your tongue
- Swelling or redness anywhere.
Watch for swelling or soreness
if you have a catheter.
- Other:
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Do you have any other changes or signs that don't seem normal to you? Don't wait. Call your doctor or nurse right away.
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- Always wash your hands:
- Before you cook or eat
- After you use the bathroom
- After being in a public place
- Wash your hands well with soap and water.
Have people around you wash their hands well, too.
- Use hand sanitizer when you can't find soap and water.
- Brush your teeth after meals and before you go to bed.
Use a very soft toothbrush.
- If you have a catheter, keep the area around it clean and dry.
Ask your nurse how to take care of this area.
- Stay away from people who are sick or have
a cold.
Try to stay away from big crowds if you can.
- Wash raw fruits and vegetables.
- Wash your hands carefully after you handle raw meat.
Cook meat well before eating it.
- Try to stay away from people who have just had a chicken pox, polio, or measles vaccine.
- Have someone else clean up after your pet.
- Use an electric shaver, not a razor.
- Clean yourself well and gently after going to the bathroom.
Let your nurse know if your rectal area is sore or bleeds.
- Don't squeeze pimples.
- What problems should I call you about?
- What other steps can I take to prevent
an infection?
- How and when should I take my temperature?
- What problems should I go to the emergency room for?
Free Services to Learn More |
National Cancer Institute
Cancer Information Service
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