Discharge information for patients with a low white blood cell count (neutropenic) and infection following chemotherapy

Discharge information

You have developed an infection as a result of a low white blood cell count during your chemotherapy treatment. Your health care team is discharging you home with antibiotic tablets to treat your infection. We know this is safe practice and of benefit to you.

However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, please phone the chemotherapy helpline immediately on 01223 274224:

• vomiting
• rash
• diarrhoea
• temperature above 38°C
• if you feel unwell

Patients occasionally need to return to hospital to be given antibiotics through a drip.

Following discharge

You will receive a telephone call from the acute oncology nurse team the day after your discharge. These follow up calls will continue for 3 days after discharge.

Please check your temperature twice daily (morning and evening) from the day you are discharged. You may find it useful to document these in the chart supplied below.

Please do not wait for these calls if you have any of the above symptoms or your temperature is above 38° C, ring the 24hour helpline on 01223 274224. Contact us for advice if you have any other concerns or worries, and make sure that your family members are aware of this information.

You can drive and continue normal activities following discharge.

Instructions for antibiotics

You have been prescribed:

☐ Co-amoxiclav 625mg tablets to take three times a day for 5-7days (including your hospital stay)

☐ Ciprofloxacin 500mg twice a day for 5-7 days (including your hospital stay)

If you have any adverse symptoms from these antibiotics please contact the 24 hour helpline 01223 274224.

Please record your temperature, in the table above, from the day you are discharged.

Remember: If you feel unwell, or your temperature is above 38°C, please contact the 24 hour helpline number above.

Privacy and dignity

Same sex bays and bathrooms are offered in all wards except critical care and theatre recovery areas where the use of high-tech equipment and / or specialist one to one care is required.