Advice please

[Evie3]

on Rituximab (last single infusion Jan) and had a toe op yesterday to remove pins inserted years ago. Been sent home with painkillers. They obviously tell u the things that could happen post op…infection etc. I forgot to ask if mayb I should take antibiotics now…just in case. Of course its Bank hols 😖 but I could ring 111. Anyone had similar …..would welcome your views. TIA

[Amnesiac3637]

Hi. I’m not sure I would take antibiotics ‘just in case’. The risks of taking them when you don’t need them are well documented and if you have no redness, swelling, fever or feeling unwell generally then you won’t have an infection brewing at the moment and your toe will probably heal well with no problems.

You’re always warned about adverse effects following operations and of course they do happen but assume you’re ok if you have none of the above. I am a retired practice nurse -that doesn’t mean I’m giving you medical advice, I’m not, but I would warn against worry about something that may not happen and you take powerful drugs needlessly. If you are worried then of course phone 111 and get advice. Obviously entirely up to you, keep a very close eye on your wound and general health and I hope you sail through a quick recovery.

[helixhelix in reply to Amnesiac3637]

great answer!

[Evie3 in reply to Amnesiac3637]

Thanks for that. My foot is so wrapped up I cant see, but I am sensible and if I feel feverish etc I will pick up the phone. My RA nurse was always drumming into me…if u get an infection u need antibiotics as on Rituximab…even for an ingrown toenail! Lol

[AgedCrone]

if you have no infection you don’t need anti biotics…don’t anticipate what you haven’t got!

I have been on Rtx for 6 years & have never had any sort of infection after surgery.

Just look after yourself & enjoy the next two. Holiday weekends.

[Evie3 in reply to AgedCrone]

just paranoid. 😖. Hopefully when pain is under control and I am healing I will b fine.

[AgedCrone in reply to Evie3]

Of course you will be fine….just look after your foot….& as you say once the pain calms down you will be able to think straight.

[Evie3]

Thank you. This site is so good ….people you can get good advice from virtually immediately