Table 4. Information and directions for splenectomized patients.

OPSI: overwhelming post-splenectomy infection

Summary of patient education details

Splenectomy carries a lifelong increased risk of infections

Initial symptoms of OPSI include high-grade fever (>38 °C), chills, myalgia, headache, vomiting, and abdominal pain

Please notify your healthcare workers about your asplenic status

Seek immediate medical attention on events like animal bites and scratches

Consider seeking medical advice prior to traveling, especially before visiting a malaria-endemic area

Always carry antibiotic supplies with you (may find helpful in case of sudden illness)

Never forget to carry a medical alert

If available, must consider registering in a “spleen registry system”