What is the highest priority nursing diagnosis for a client with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) based on abnormal WBC count?

The highest priority nursing diagnosis for a client with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) based on an abnormal white blood cell (WBC) count is Ineffective Protection. In SLE, the immune system is compromised, which can lead to decreased levels of white blood cells, thereby increasing the client's susceptibility to infections. A low WBC count can signify leukopenia, posing a direct risk of infection, which is critical to address in nursing care.

The focus on protection is paramount because if a client with SLE has a compromised immune system, they have a diminished ability to fight off infections, potentially leading to serious complications. This diagnosis emphasizes the need for monitoring for signs of infection, educating the patient on preventive measures, and ensuring that interventions are in place to protect the client's health.

While other diagnoses, such as Ineffective Individual Coping, Impaired Skin Integrity, and Ineffective Health Maintenance, are important considerations for managing an SLE patient, they do not have the same immediate implications for physical safety as the risk of infection associated with an abnormal WBC count. The priority from a nursing perspective is always to ensure that the patient is safeguarded from potential harm, making the diagnosis of Ineffective Protection critical in this scenario.