A nurse is reinforcing teaching to a client who has new-onset neutropenia. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the discharge Instructions?

Rationale: A. Neutropenia significantly reduces the body’s ability to fight infections, making the client vulnerable to opportunistic infections, including oral candidiasis (thrush) and systemic infections. Reinforcing infection prevention strategies, such as good hand hygiene, avoiding sick contacts, and prompt reporting of fever or oral lesions, is essential in discharge teaching. B. While neutropenia can increase infection risk, routine monitoring specifically for periodontal disease is not the primary focus of discharge instructions. The main concern is immediate infection prevention, not chronic dental conditions. C. Neutropenia does not increase the risk for Barrett’s esophagus. This statement is unrelated and inappropriate for discharge teaching about neutropenia. D. While good oral hygiene is always recommended, the primary concern for neutropenic patients is prevention of opportunistic infections, not routine gingivitis. The focus is on avoiding infections that can become systemic and life-threatening.