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Which lab result is most indicative of infection in a client with a fever?

  • A. Increased white blood cell count
  • B. Elevated neutrophils and band cells
  • C. Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
  • D. Increased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increased white blood cell count. When a client has an infection, the body's immune response triggers an increase in white blood cells to help fight off the infection. Neutrophils and band cells (choice B) may also increase during infection, but a general increase in white blood cells is a more reliable indicator. ESR (choice C) is a nonspecific marker of inflammation and may be elevated in various conditions, not just infection. LDH (choice D) is an enzyme found in many tissues and can be elevated in various conditions, not specifically infection. Therefore, an increased white blood cell count is the most indicative of infection in a client with a fever.