A client with acute leukemia has a complete blood count showing a WBC of 1,200/µL with an Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) of 450/µL. Which nursing action is essential to maintain patient safety?

An ANC < 500/µL indicates severe neutropenia with high susceptibility to opportunistic, life-threatening infection. Protective isolation (neutropenic precautions) requires eliminating fresh flowers, potted plants, and raw/unpeeled produce because they harbor fungal spores and bacterial pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Negative pressure is for airborne infections (like TB), aspirin increases bleeding risk, and flossing can cause mucosal microtrauma and subsequent bacteremia.