Table 3.

Sample Key Messages for Patients

Define neutropenia.

Explain that neutropenia is a major risk factor for infections in patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy.

Convey that infections during chemotherapy can be life threatening and may delay future chemotherapy treatments.

Explain that there are effective strategies used by the health care team to anticipate, prevent, and manage infections.

Discuss the roles of the clinician and patient in managing febrile neutropenia.

Explain how risk will be assessed.

Explain that patients will be kept informed about when their risk of infection is highest.

Tell patients who are neutropenic that fever may be a sign of infection, even in the absence of other symptoms. Therefore, if fever is present, they need to seek immediate medical attention.

Provide information about other signs of infection and tell them to seek medical attention immediately in the presence of any signs of infection.

Provide information about hand washing, mouth care, skin changes and skin care, protection from cuts and scrapes, wound care, pet care, and gardening.