A nurse is assessing a client who is postoperative following abdominal surgery. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client is at risk for developing a surgical wound infection?

Rationale: A. White blood cell count 8,000/mm³ (5,000 to 10,000/mm³): A normal white blood cell count indicates that the body is not currently mounting an inflammatory or infectious response. This finding does not place the client at risk for developing a wound infection. B. Temperature 36.8° C (98° F): A normal temperature suggests that the client is afebrile and not showing signs of infection or systemic inflammation. This finding reflects stable postoperative recovery and is not a risk factor for infection. C. Body mass index of 32: Obesity increases the risk for surgical wound infection because excess adipose tissue has poor blood supply, impairing oxygen and nutrient delivery needed for wound healing. Additionally, increased tension on the incision site can lead to dehiscence and bacterial colonization. D. Blood glucose 90 mg/dL (74 to 106 mg/dL): A normal blood glucose level supports effective immune function and normal wound healing. Hyperglycemia, not euglycemia, would predispose the client to infection by impairing leukocyte function.