The Information Book Edition 3 - Paediatric Integrated Cancer Service

InfectionSometimes your child is well enough to go home but the white cell count maybe low. This means your child has a greater chance of getting an infection.Care should be taken in crowded public places – pools and spas should beavoided at all times. Remember, most infections in children with low bloodcounts occur from germs within the patient’s own body and are not caughtfrom others. If you aren’t sure what to do, speak with the nurse coordinatoror the ward.If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact the ward or nursecoordinator immediately.Signs and symptoms of infectionIf you think your child might have an infection, follow the Quick Help guide inthe front of this book.• Temperature– Take the temperature if your child looks unwell or feels unwell.– 38°C or above – contact the ward immediately• Flushed appearance, complains of being hot and / or cold, sweating, shivering• Coughing, sneezing, runny nose, shortness of breath, tightness over the chest• Redness, swelling and / or pain in the throat, eyes, ears, skin, joints,abdomen• Blurring vision, headaches and difficulties with sight• Smelly, discoloured urine, needing to do wee often and urgently, stinging• Redness, swelling and / or discomfort at the site of a central lineor insuflon / port-a-cath• Pain or stinging when doing poo• Constipation for more than 48 hours• Diarrhoea• Any skin rash or red spots• VomitingCaring for your child and family Sec.4.3Updated July 2012