A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client admitted for an asthma exacerbation. Elevation of which of these cells indicates that the client's asthma may have been triggered by an allergic response?

Question

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client admitted for an asthma exacerbation.  Elevation of which of these cells indicates that the client's asthma may have been triggered by an allergic response?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Normal eosinophil count is 1%-2%. Elevated eosinophils are seen in allergy. In a client with an asthma exacerbation, a high eosinophil count would indicate an allergic trigger for the asthmatic response. The nurse should explore the client's allergy history and ways to reduce the allergic exposure that may be contributing to the exacerbation. (Option B) Lymphocytes form the major part of immune system. Elevated levels are seen with viral infections and hematologic malignancies. (Option C) Normal neutrophils are 55%-70%. Elevated neutrophils indicate infection. (Option D) Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells. Normal reticulocyte count is 0.5%-2.0%. Levels are elevated in hemolytic anemia or hemorrhage when the marrow is attempting to compensate for lost blood. Educational objective: An elevated eosinophil count in the complete blood count is associated with allergy. Allergies are frequently triggers of asthma exacerbation.

A Nurse Is Reviewing the Laboratory Results of a Client