Generally Unwell or Fever (systemic chemotherapy in last 6 weeks or at risk of disease related immunosuppression)
Systemically Unwell/Fever
Fever or systemic illness in patients who have received systemic anti-cancer therapy (chemotherapy orally or IV) within the last 6-8 weeks, or who are at risk of disease related immunosuppression must be taken seriously.
Grade 1 (Green)
Advice
- Not applicable- red level of advice only
Grade 2 (Amber)
Advice
- Not applicable- red level of advice only
Grade 3 (Red)
- Temperature is > 37.5 C or < 36 C
- Or generally unwell.
Advice
Consider urgent referral to the Emergency Department.
If clinically safe to do so, contact telephone advice line for URGENT assessment. Risk of neutropenic sepsis.
Contact the Acute Oncology Helpline immediately:
(Mon-Fri 9-5): 07831 147653
Out of hours: 0208 672 1255 ask for the oncology out of hours service
ALERT – Patients on steroids/analgesics or who are dehydrated may not present with pyrexia but may still have infection. If in doubt phone for advice.
