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Protective (Neutropenic) Isolation — NCLEX Cheat Sheet

Protect patient; ANC < 500

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👤 By the CinnaRN Clinical Content Team 🕐 Updated 2026-07-11 🏷️ Safety & Infection Control 🔖 Free to read, print, and share

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Use this quick-reference guide to spot, treat, and prevent Protective (Neutropenic) Isolation on the NCLEX. Keep it handy during review and on exam day!

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Who

Key facts

Neutropenia, chemo, transplant, burns
ANC < 500 = high infection risk

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Do

Nursing actions

Private room, positive pressure
Strict hand hygiene all visitors
Low-bacteria diet, no raw food

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Avoid

Key facts

No fresh flowers/plants/standing water
No sick visitors or live vaccines

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Report

Notify / act now

Fever may be ONLY infection sign
Temp ≥ 100.4°F → notify STAT

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Quick Tip

Indicated when the absolute neutrophil count is low, generally below 1,000 and especially below 500 cells/mm3.

📖 Related Topics

Group B Streptococcus Lead Poisoning Child Abuse Recognition Car Seat Safety

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