Following chemotherapy, a low white cell count increases a patient's risk for which of the following?

A low white blood cell count, commonly known as leukopenia, is a frequent side effect of chemotherapy. White blood cells play a crucial role in the body's immune system, as they are responsible for fighting off infections. When chemotherapy leads to a reduced number of these cells, the patient's ability to combat bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens diminishes significantly. This condition heightens the risk of infections, making it a critical concern for patients undergoing treatment.

While dehydration, hemorrhage, and fatigue can also be associated with chemotherapy, they are not directly linked to low white cell counts in the same manner as infections are. Dehydration can occur due to various factors, including side effects of chemotherapy such as nausea or vomiting, but it is not a direct consequence of a low white blood cell count. Hemorrhage is more closely associated with low platelet counts, while fatigue can arise from multiple chemotherapy effects but is not specifically a result of reduced white blood cells. Therefore, the increased risk for infections due to a low white blood cell count is the most pertinent concern following chemotherapy.