Final answer:
Red blood cells must be maintained in an isotonic solution to prevent shrinking or bursting. Hypertonic solutions cause cells to shrink, while hypotonic solutions can lead to swelling and bursting or hemolysis. Isotonic intravenous drugs are crucial for protecting red blood cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
To prevent the shrinking or bursting of red blood cells, it is crucial to maintain the cells in an isotonic solution, where the solute concentration is equal both inside and outside of the cells. When red blood cells are placed in a hypertonic solution, they shrink as water moves out of the cell, a process known as crenation. Conversely, when placed in a hypotonic solution, red blood cells swell and may burst due to excess water flowing into the cells, a process called hemolysis.
Clinicians must ensure that intravenous drugs are formulated in isotonic solutions to prevent these harmful effects on red blood cells. Osmolarity must be carefully managed to sustain red blood cells' critical role in oxygen delivery. Therefore, the tonicity of any solution introduced to the bloodstream is a significant consideration in medical treatments and for the functioning of red blood cells.