What term is used when the WBC count is elevated?

Leukocytosis is the term used to describe an elevated white blood cell (WBC) count. This condition often indicates that the body is reacting to some form of stress or infection, as white blood cells are crucial components of the immune system responsible for fighting off pathogens and other foreign bodies.

When there is an increase in WBCs, it can reflect various underlying conditions, such as infections, inflammation, stress, or even more serious issues like leukemia. Understanding this term is important for nurses and healthcare providers, as monitoring WBC counts can aid in diagnosing and managing a patient's condition effectively.

The other options describe different conditions related to white blood cell count: leukopenia refers to a decreased WBC count, agranulocytosis represents a severe form of leukopenia with a significant reduction in specific types of white blood cells, and bone marrow suppression entails a decrease in blood cell production, which may result in lower WBC counts as well. Thus, the focus of leukocytosis as an elevation is what distinguishes it as the correct answer.