Pediatric Hematology and Oncology

Frequently Asked Questions

Read the following FAQ's to learn about important parent information, our services, and more

What can I do to prevent infection?

Children receiving cancer treatments are more prone to infections at certain times in their treatment. If the number of white blood cells in your child's blood is low, there is a higher risk for infection. When your child's white blood cells are low, it is very important to try to prevent infection. To prevent infection, your child should: Bathe or shower daily; Rinse the mouth with water and practice good mouth care following all meals, after snacks, and before bed; Wash hands thoroughly after playing outside, using the bathroom, and before eating; Avoid large groups of people when white blood cell count is less than 1000.

What are the signs of infection?

Even if you have followed all preventive measures, it is still possible for your child to get an infection. When your child does have an infection, he or she may have the following symptoms: Fever of 100.4 F; Chills, shaking, and sweating; Pain when urinating; Loose stools; Cough; Sore throat; Drainage from sore(s); Ear aches; Stomach pain; Tiredness.

What do I do if signs of infection appear?

If any symptoms of infection appear, especially a fever over 100.4 F, call our office immediately at (856) 342-2748 or the hospital operator at (856) 342.2000 after office hours and ask for the pediatric hematology oncologist on call. A physician or a member of our clinic will be on call to give you specific instructions. You may be asked for your child's last white blood cell results. You may be instructed to have the blood counts done in our clinic or an emergency room.

How can I help my young child during treatments?

We encourage parents to play an active, collaborative role in the management of their child's health, therapy, and recovery. During your child's treatment for a blood disorder or cancer at our clinic, we encourage parents to:

1. Remain with your child to reassure him/her during treatment.
2. Stay calm. If your child sees that you are calm, chances are he/she will be, too.
3. Cuddle your child and talk softly, in a reassuring tone.
4. Give your child permission to cry or yell. Avoid shaming him/her for being upset. Just remind your child that his / her job is to remain still.
5. During the treatment, give your child something else to focus on. Let him/her hold a favorite toy or tell you a story.
6. Give your child praise and encouragement when the treatment is over.

Will our Family Doctor be informed of my child's condition?

Referring physicians are called following the first patient consultation and also receive a written report. For continuing outpatient care, copies of clinical notes are forwarded to referring physicians on an ongoing basis. For inpatient care, referring physicians receive admissions and discharge summaries. Patients are returned to the care of their referring physician upon conclusion of treatment.

Program staff maintains an ongoing liaison with hematology and oncology patients and their physicians.

Where will my child receive his / her oncology treatments or procedures?

Most oncology procedures take place on an outpatient basis in the short procedure unit of One Cooper Plaze in Camden, New Jersey. Sedation is provided by board certified pediatric intensivist. If hospitalization is required, your child will be admitted to Cooper Children's Regional Hospital located in the main hospital.

Do you offer support services for parents and family?

Yes. At Cooper Children’s Hematology and Oncology Clinic, we understand that a child's diagnosis with cancer affects the whole family. We sponsor very special programs that are responsive and sensitive to the needs of patients and their families.