The history and physical for a newly admitted patient states that the complete blood count ( CBC ) shows a "shift to the left." The nurse will plan to monitor the patient for

Question

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The term shift to the left indicates that the number of immature polymorphonuclear neutrophils, or bands, is elevated and is a sign of severe infection. There is no indication that the patient is at risk for hypoxemia, pallor/weakness, or cool extremities.

The History and Physical for a Newly Admitted Patient States