While changing a client's postoperative dressing, the nurse observes purulent drainage at the site. Before reporting this finding to the healthcare provider, the nurse should note which of the client's laboratory values?

Rationale A. An elevated neutrophil count suggests an active immune response to infection, supporting the clinical findings of purulent drainage. This information is crucial for the healthcare provider to assess the severity of the infection and guide treatment. B. Hematocrit changes are more related to blood volume, fluid shifts, or bleeding rather than infection. While it may be monitored postoperatively, it does not provide specific information about infection. C. Platelet count is important for assessing clotting function but does not directly indicate infection or purulent drainage. D. Serum sodium levels are part of electrolyte balance and hydration status monitoring but do not directly relate to the presence of infection.