Pediatric Patient Chemotherapy & Radiation Therapy Instructions

Following are instructions to follow for children receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Please ask your oncology doctor or nurse if you have any questions.

Dos and Don't

1. Do not give your child:


• Aspirin


• Tylenol (without checking with the doctor/nurse)


• Rectal temperature


• Non-prescription medications including vitamins without checking with doctor or nurse first.
2. Do not take your child to the dentist without checking with the doctor or nurse first.



3. Do not allow your child or siblings to be vaccinated or immunized without checking with the doctor or nurse first.



4. Do apply sunscreens regularly.



5. Do encourage regular activity (school, friends, etc.).

Know your child's last blood counts!

1. When the white blood cells are low:


• Avoid crowds;


• Do not allow your child to have contact with ill children or adults;


• Watch for signs of infection - it is an emergency if your child gets a fever greater than 101° or three (3) or more times greater than 100.5° F in 24 hours. Do not give Tylenol.
2. When the red blood cells are low:


• Watch for signs of anemia (pallor, fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness or complaints of headache);


• Allow for rest periods.
3. When the platelets are low:


• Watch for signs of bleeding (nosebleeds; blood in urine, stool or emesis; bleeding from gums);


• Watch for increased bruising;


• Avoid physical activities that could cause injury (running, jumping, bicycling, skateboarding, horseback riding, amusement rides);


• Use a soft bristle toothbrush or toothette;


• Be careful when shaving.