PN Adult Medical Surgical Practice Exam

What finding should the nurse identify as a complication of surgery in a postoperative client?

1. Serous drainage from the incision.

2. WBC count of 15,000/mm3.

3. Temperature of 37.2° C (99° F).

4. Urine output of 400 mL over the past 8 hours.

The correct answer is: WBC count of 15,000/mm3.

A white blood cell (WBC) count of 15,000/mm³ can indicate the presence of infection or inflammation, which are significant complications that may arise after surgery. In a postoperative setting, a WBC count that exceeds the normal range, typically around 4,000 to 11,000/mm³, suggests a possible immune response to infection or a response to surgical stress. This elevation can raise a red flag for healthcare providers as infections such as surgical site infections (SSIs) can lead to more severe complications, prolonged hospitalization, and increased morbidity. Therefore, monitoring WBC counts in postoperative patients is crucial for early detection of potential infections and mitigating their effects. In contrast, serous drainage from an incision is typically normal, as this indicates ongoing healing. A temperature of 37.2° C (99° F) is also within acceptable limits for many postoperative patients, as slight elevations can be expected after surgery due to several factors, including the body's inflammatory response. Additionally, a urine output of 400 mL over eight hours signifies adequate renal function, as it equates to approximately 50 mL per hour, aligning with normal urinary output benchmarks.