American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Practice Test

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Prepare for the AACN Certification Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question comes with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

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Which type of white blood cell are referred to as "bands"?

Immature neutrophils
Mature neutrophils
Eosinophils
Basophils

The correct answer is: Immature neutrophils

The term "bands" refers specifically to immature neutrophils. In the context of a complete blood count (CBC) with differential, these cells are typically seen in increased numbers when the body is responding to infection or inflammation. Immature neutrophils, or "bands," are an early form of neutrophils that have not yet fully matured. As they develop, they transition into mature neutrophils, which are more efficient at combating infections. Monitoring the levels of bands can provide valuable insight into a patient's inflammatory status or the presence of an ongoing infection. An elevated band count, known as a "left shift," is often indicative of the body's response to stressors or infections. Understanding the role and characteristics of these immature neutrophils is crucial for evaluating a patient's immune response.