6. Blood

Blood

The fluid and cells that make up blood.

Four Main Components of Blood

Plasma, Red Blood Cells (RBCs), White Blood Cells (WBCs), and Platelets.

Plasma

The liquid portion of blood that makes up 55% of total blood volume.

Plasma Composition

90% water and 10% solutes.

Plasma Solutes

Glucose, proteins, lipids, amino acids, electrolytes, minerals, lactic acid, pyruvic acid, hormones, enzymes, oxygen, and carbon dioxide.

Blood Function

Delivers nutrients, including oxygen, to body cells.

Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

Blood cells that carry most of the oxygen through hemoglobin.

Erythrocytes

Another name for red blood cells.

Hemoglobin

The protein in red blood cells that carries most of the oxygen.

White Blood Cells (WBCs)

Blood cells that defend the body by engulfing microorganisms.

Leukocytes

Another name for white blood cells.

Phagocytosis

The process by which white blood cells engulf microorganisms.

Antibodies

Substances produced by white blood cells to help defend the body.

Platelets

Large blood components described in the notes as helping blood coagulate.

Blood Coagulation

The process of forming a blood clot.

RBC Lifespan

120 days.

WBC Lifespan

2 to 24 hours (as written in the notes).

Cardiac Glycosides, Antianginals, and Antidysrhythmics

Three groups of drugs that regulate heart contraction, heart rate, heart rhythm, and blood flow to the myocardium.

Myocardium

The muscle of the heart that receives regulated blood flow from the cardiovascular system.

Functions Regulated by Cardiac Drugs

Heart contraction, heart rate, heart rhythm, and blood flow to the myocardium.