Autologous Transplant Patient Education Manual - Moores Cancer ...

Mouth or Oral care
Thorough mouth care is important to maintain healthy gums and teeth. You will need to
rinse your mouth with Normal Saline for a full minute four times a day then gently brush
your teeth, gums and tongue with a fluoride toothpaste. If bleeding occurs or if the
toothbrush causes pain, use a foam toothette instead.
If you are regularly flossing your teeth, you may continue to do so but only do it once a day.
Do not floss if it causes bleeding or increased pain, if your platelets drop below 50,000
and/or ANC is less than 1,000.
Keep your lips moist using a lip balm or Vaseline. Avoid mouth rinses containing alcohol or
hydrogen peroxide. Acidic, salty, spicy, hot and coarsely texture foods should be kept at a
minimum.
Continue to see your dentist twice a year. Notify the transplant team before your first dental
visit after transplant.
If your mouth feels dry, rinse your mouth with Normal Saline before and after meals as
needed, chew sugar-free gum, avoid tobacco and alcohol or ask your doctor about artificial
saliva.
Nutrition
Nutrition is very important during this time. It is important that you have an adequate intake of
calories, protein, vitamins and minerals to support your growing immune system. As
mentioned above, you will remain on the Low-Microbial Diet for up to three months after your
transplant or as determined by your doctor.
Changes in taste, dry mouth and possibly some nausea may decrease your interest in
eating. During this time, small frequent meals with snacks and the use of nutritional
supplements (Carnation instant drinks, Ensure, Sustacal, and Slim Fast) may be
helpful in supplying enough calories and nutritional intake.
SKIN CARE
Sun Exposure
You should avoid direct sun exposure. Your skin will be sensitive to the sun because of the
high-dose chemotherapy and/or radiation.
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes, always wear a sunscreen of at least 30SPF and wear a
hat and long sleeves as well as long pants. Cover as much skin as possible. Light colored
clothing is the best.
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