Question

The nurse is caring for an older postoperative client. Which assessment finding causes the nurse to assess further for a wound infection?

A) The client is now confused but was not confused previously.
B) Moderate serosanguineous drainage is seen on the dressing.
C) The white blood cell count is 8000/mm3.
D) The white blood cell differential indicates a right shift.

Answer 1

The assessment finding that causes the nurse to assess further for a wound infection in the older postoperative client is a right shift in the white blood cell differential.

Step-by-step explanation:

The assessment finding that causes the nurse to assess further for a wound infection in the older postoperative client is The white blood cell differential indicates a right shift.

A right shift in the white blood cell differential refers to an increase in the percentage of immature neutrophils called bands. This is an indication of an ongoing infection and can be seen in cases of a severe bacterial infection or sepsis. The presence of a right shift suggests a more serious infection and requires further assessment and intervention.