One day after vaginal delivery of a full-term baby, a postpartum client’s white blood cell (WBC) count is 15,000/mm³ (15 x 10⁹/L). Which action should the nurse take first?

Check the differential, since the WBC is normal for this client.

Assess the client’s perineal area for signs of a perineal hematoma.

Assess the client’s temperature, heart rate, and respirations every 4 hours.

Notify the healthcare provider (HCP), since this finding is indicative of infection.