During a dressing change, purulent drainage is observed at the wound site. Before reporting this to the healthcare provider, which laboratory value should the nurse review first?

• A. Neutrophil Count
• B. Hematocrit
• C. Platelet Count
• D. Sodium Level

Answer: (A)

Purulent drainage signals a bacterial wound infection, and the first part of the immune response involves neutrophils—the white blood cells that rush to the site to fight bacteria. Checking the neutrophil count directly shows how strongly the body is responding to this infection. An elevated neutrophil count (neutrophilia) supports the presence of an acute bacterial infection and helps gauge severity and urgency, which is why this value is reviewed first before contacting the provider.

Hematocrit focuses on red blood cell volume and oxygen-carrying capacity, not the acute inflammatory response. Platelet count relates to clotting and can be affected in various conditions but doesn’t specifically indicate infection. Sodium level concerns electrolyte balance and fluid status, not the infection process. So, while those values are important in broader patient care, the neutrophil count provides the most immediate insight into whether the wound infection is actively provoking an immune response and needing antibiotic consideration.