Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

What is a normal finding for a postoperative patient's WBC count?

1. 4,000 to 10,000/mL

2. 8,000 to 12,000/mL

3. 3,500 to 9,000/mL

4. 2,500 to 7,500/mL

The correct answer is: 4,000 to 10,000/mL

A normal finding for a postoperative patient's white blood cell (WBC) count typically falls within the range of 4,000 to 10,000 cells per microliter (mL) of blood. This range indicates a healthy immune response and is consistent with normal physiological values. Immediately after surgery, a patient's WBC count may be influenced by factors such as the body's inflammatory response to surgery, potential infections, and stress, but it generally remains within or close to this normal range, assuming no complications have arisen. Various ranges listed in other options may reflect variations due to specific conditions or laboratory standards, but the first option conforms to widely accepted definitions of normalcy in healthy adults. Understanding these ranges is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers in evaluating a patient's recovery and identifying any potential complications that may require further investigation or intervention.