If the client's white blood cell (WBC) count is 25,000/mm³ on her second postpartum day, which action should the nurse take?
A) Document the finding.
B) Tell the health care provider.
C) Begin antibiotic therapy immediately.
D) Have the laboratory draw blood for reanalysis.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An increase in WBC count to 25,000/mm³ during the postpartum period is considered normal and not a sign of infection. The nurse should document the finding. Because this is a normal finding, there is no reason to alert the health care provider. Antibiotics are not needed because the elevated WBCs are caused by the stress of labor and not an infectious process. There is no need for reassessment as it is expected for the WBCs to be elevated.

If the Client's White Blood Cell (WBC) Count Is 25,000/mm³