MONONUCLEOSIS
PROBLEM
Mononucleosis (mono) is an acute, infectious, viral disease. Mono causes fever, sore throat, fatigue, and swollen lymph glands.
CAUSE
Epstein–Barr virus causes mono and is spread to other persons through body fluids, primarily saliva, for example, kissing, sharing food, and coughing without covering your mouth.
PREVENTION
A.Avoid contact with persons diagnosed with mono.
B.Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze to prevent the spread of infection.
C.Use tissues to blow your nose and throw them away.
D.If you do not have a tissue, use your upper sleeve or the elbow sneeze
using the bend of your arm instead of using your hand.
E.Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer.
TREATMENT PLAN
There is no specific cure. Gargle with warm salt water for a sore throat.
Activity:
A.Mono makes you very tired; rest in bed, then gradually return to normal activity.
B.You should not do any physical activity that puts you at risk for blunt trauma, especially contact sports (football, soccer, basketball, etc.), unless you have been cleared by your healthcare provider.
Diet: Eat a high-calorie diet. Drink plenty of liquids (at least eight glasses a day).
Medications:
A.Analgesics, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may be taken for fever, body aches, and malaise.
B.Antibiotic therapy is reserved for concurrent infections such as streptococcal pharyngitis.
C.Corticosteroids may be considered in the presence of significant inflammation and swelling of the throat.
D.You may be given other medications by your provider.
You Have Been Prescribed: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Notify the Office If You Have:
A.Severe pain in the upper left abdomen; rupture of the spleen is a medical emergency, so go immediately to the hospital.
B.Fever more than 102°F over 24 to 48 hours.
C.Swallowing or breathing difficulty from a severe throat inflammation.
D.Rash: A rash may follow if antibiotics are given.
E.Other: ___________________________________________________________
Phone: ____________________________
PATIENT TEACHING GUIDE