The nurse is collecting data on a patient with a left tibia fracture. Which of the following findings is a priority finding?

A. Absent left pedal pulse: Suggests vascular compromise possibly due to swelling, compartment syndrome, or arterial injury. Immediate intervention is needed to restore perfusion. B. Decreased lymphocyte count: May indicate immune suppression or infection risk, but it's not directly related to the acute fracture or limb viability. C. Increased red blood cell count: Could be due to dehydration or chronic hypoxia, but it's not an acute concern in the context of a fracture. D. Decreased body temperature: May reflect environmental exposure or systemic issues, but unless it's severe hypothermia, it's not immediately threatening in this scenario.