Functions and Composition of Blood

A set of flashcards covering the functions and composition of blood, including its elements, hemostasis, and blood typing.

What are the primary functions of blood?

Transport of gases, nutrients, waste products, regulatory molecules, regulation of pH and osmosis, maintenance of body temperature, and protection against foreign substances.

What percentage of blood volume is plasma?

55% of blood volume.

What is the liquid matrix of blood called?

Plasma.

How much blood does an average adult female have?

4 to 5 liters.

How much blood does an average adult male have?

5 to 6 liters.

What are the formed elements in blood?

Cells and cell fragments constituting 45% of blood volume.

What are the main components of plasma?

Ions, nutrients, waste products, gases, and regulatory substances.

What is the role of hemoglobin in red blood cells?

Transports oxygen and carbon dioxide.

What are the two main types of white blood cells?

Granulocytes and agranulocytes.

What do platelets do?

Form platelet plugs and release chemicals necessary for blood clotting.

What is hemostasis?

The fast series of reactions for the stoppage of bleeding to maintain homeostasis.

What triggers the vascular spasm during hemostasis?

Nervous system reflexes and chemicals released from damaged cells and platelets.

What is the function of von Willebrand factor in platelet plug formation?

Mediates the adhesion of platelets to the damaged vessel.

What happens to hemoglobin from ruptured red blood cells?

It is digested by macrophages to yield amino acids, iron, and bilirubin.

What are the four main blood groups based on the presence of antigens?

A, B, AB, and O.

What is the Rh factor in blood typing?

Presence or absence of Rh antigens on the surface of red blood cells.

What is the potential outcome of Rh incompatibility during pregnancy?

Hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN).

What is the role of RhoGAM?

Containts antibodies against Rh antigens to prevent HDN.