A WBC count of 4,000 would contraindicate which level of activity?

• A. No exercise
• B. Light exercise
• C. Resistive exercise
• D. High-intensity training

Answer: (A)

Safety of activity depends on immune status; the White Blood Cell count is used to gauge infection risk during rehabilitation. A WBC count of 4,000 cells/µL signals a relatively low level of immune defense, where even gentle exertion can increase the risk of infection or hinder recovery. In this context, the most cautious and appropriate approach is to avoid exercise altogether until counts rise or symptoms are absent, because any level of activity could tip the balance toward complications. If counts were clearly higher and the patient was clinically well, light activity might be considered, but with this count, no exercise is the safest choice. High‑intensity or resistive activities would pose greater strain and potential risk and are contraindicated when immune protection is reduced.