Question

What should the nurse's next action be if the client's white blood cell (WBC) count is 25,000/mm3 on her second postpartum day?

a) Immediately inform the physician.
b) Have the laboratory draw blood for reanalysis.
c) Recognize that this count is an acceptable range at this point postpartum.
d) Immediately begin antibiotic therapy.

Answer 1

The nurse's next action should be to immediately inform the physician.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's next action, if the client's white blood cell (WBC) count is 25,000/mm3 on her second postpartum day, should be to immediately inform the physician. A WBC count of 25,000/mm3 is significantly elevated and may indicate an infection or another underlying condition. The physician should be notified so they can further evaluate the client and determine the appropriate course of action.