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?

A Check the differential, since the WBC is normal for this client. C Assess the client's temperature, heart rate, and respirations every 4 hours. D Notify the healthcare provider (HCP), since this finding is indicative of infection. B Assess the client's perineal area for signs of a perineal hematoma.