Questions and Answers
What is the normal range for a white blood cell (WBC) count in adults?
What condition is indicated by a neutrophil count below 1,000?
When should a patient notify their healthcare team regarding low hemoglobin levels?
What is the normal platelet count range for an adult?
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What risk is associated with a platelet count below 50,000?
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What symptoms should a patient with a low platelet count report to their healthcare team?
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What is the primary purpose of growth factors after chemotherapy treatment?
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Which type of growth factor requires daily administration in the days following chemotherapy?
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What should a patient do if they notice a flashing red light on their on-body injector (OBI)?
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What side effects may be experienced from growth factor treatments?
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Study Notes
Low Blood Cell Counts in Cancer Patients
- Cancer therapies, especially chemotherapy, can reduce healthy blood cell counts, increasing the risk of various symptoms and complications.
White Blood Cells (WBC)
- WBCs are integral to the immune system and help combat infections.
- Normal WBC count ranges from 4,500 to 11,000 cells per microliter in adults.
- Neutrophils, a crucial WBC type, should be between 2,500 and 7,000.
- Counts below 1,000 indicate neutropenia, significantly elevating infection risks.
- Patients with low neutrophils should maintain hand hygiene and avoid crowded places.
- Symptoms requiring immediate medical attention include fevers over 100.4°F (38.0°C) and persistent sore throats or wounds.
Hemoglobin
- Hemoglobin, found in red blood cells, transports oxygen to tissues.
- Normal levels are 12-16 g/dL for females and 14-18 g/dL for males.
- Low hemoglobin may cause fatigue and breathing difficulties; medical consultation is critical if chest pain occurs.
- Severe deficiencies might necessitate blood transfusions.
Platelets
- Platelets contribute to blood clotting.
- Normal platelet count is between 150,000 and 450,000 per microliter.
- Counts below 50,000 raise bleeding risks, with precautionary measures including avoiding razors and contact sports.
- Patients should report any bleeding or skin rashes, such as petechiae, to healthcare providers.
Growth Factors
- Growth factors are medications designed to elevate white blood cell counts post-chemotherapy, reducing infection chances.
Short Acting Growth Factors
- Administered as daily injections in varying locations by healthcare professionals for a brief duration.
- Patients may receive multiple injections over consecutive days at treatment facilities.
Long Acting Growth Factors
- Delivered via a single injection, providing effects over several days.
- On-body injectors (OBIs) can dispense medication 24 hours post-chemotherapy without additional clinic visits.
- Patients must monitor OBIs for malfunction indicators, such as red lights or beeping.
Side Effects
- Potential side effects include injection site reactions (redness, swelling), general muscle or bone pain, headaches, fever, diarrhea, and fatigue.
- Patients should report any adverse effects to their healthcare team for appropriate assessment.
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Description
This quiz examines the impact of cancer therapy on blood cell counts, focusing on the normal ranges and potential issues for non-cancer patients. Understand the implications of low blood cell counts and how they relate to cancer treatment. It's crucial for patients and providers to know what constitutes normal in these circumstances.
