ATI Capstone Exam 1 Related

Review ATI Capstone Exam 1 related questions and content

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has a pressure ulcer. The nurse should identify an elevation in which of the following laboratory values as an indication that the client has developed an infection?

  • A. WBC count
  • B. BUN
  • C. Potassium
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: WBC count. An elevation in WBC count indicates the presence of infection as the body releases more white blood cells to fight off pathogens. In the case of a pressure ulcer, an increased WBC count suggests bacterial invasion and inflammation at the site of the ulcer. BUN (choice B) and Potassium (choice C) are not specific indicators of infection and are more related to kidney function and electrolyte balance, respectively. Therefore, they are not appropriate for determining infection in this context.