Which intervention is appropriate for a patient receiving thiotepa?

• A. frequent application of skin lotion
• B. bathing and linen changes every 6 to 8 hours
• C. use of an occlusive dressing to secure a central line
• D. diaper changes every 4 hours

Answer: (B)

Infection prevention for an immunocompromised patient is the main idea here. Thiotepa can cause significant bone marrow suppression, leading to neutropenia, so keeping the patient free from infection becomes a top priority. Bathing and changing linens every 6 to 8 hours minimizes the microbial load on the skin and in the environment, reducing the chance that pathogens will take hold in someone with a vulnerable immune system. This practice supports skin integrity and a cleaner bed area, which are crucial when the body’s defenses are down.

Frequent skin lotion isn’t as protective in this scenario because it doesn’t reduce environmental contamination or the microbial load to the same extent, and some products can irritate sensitive skin. Central-line dressings require proper sterile technique and appropriate securement rather than an occlusive dressing chosen for other purposes. Diaper changes every 4 hours aren’t relevant for most adults and don’t address the infection risk tied to chemotherapy-induced neutropenia.