The history and physical examination for a newly admitted patient states that the complete blood count shows a "shift to the left." What is the priority nursing assessment?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A "shift to the left" in a complete blood count typically indicates an increase in immature white blood cells, often seen in response to infection. Therefore, assessing for an elevated temperature, a common sign of infection, is a priority.

The History and Physical Examination for a Newly Admitted Patient