North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

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During labor, what is the normal range for white blood cell count by complete dilation?

7,000 to 10,000
10,000 to 12,000
15,000 to 20,000
20,000 to 25,000

The correct answer is: 15,000 to 20,000

The normal range for white blood cell count (WBC) during labor, particularly by complete dilation, typically shows an increase due to the physiological stress and the inflammatory response associated with labor. It is common to see WBC counts rise to between 15,000 and 20,000 cells per microliter at this stage. This elevation can be attributed to factors like tissue trauma, stress, pain, and the onset of labor itself, which all stimulate the immune response. Understanding the normal physiological changes during labor is crucial for midwives and healthcare providers, as it helps differentiate between normal labor responses and potential pathological conditions, such as infection. Recognizing where this WBC range fits in the context of labor can aid in clinical decision-making and monitoring of maternal health.