Question

Blood is made of many elements that may be used separately or together when someone receives a transfusion. Describe each component of blood (including plasma and the formed elements) and give an example of why someone might need each element. For example, the symptoms of anemia include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and dizziness or lightheadedness. What element of blood is related to anemia, and why does anemia cause these symptoms

Answer 1

Blood consists of plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, each with specific functions. Anemia is caused by a lack of red blood cells, leading to oxygen transport issues. Transfusions of each blood component are used to treat various conditions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Components of Blood and Their Uses in Transfusions

Blood is a vital fluid connective tissue that performs various functions such as nutrient and gas transport, defense against infections, and the regulation of body's pH and temperature. Blood is comprised of plasma, red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), and platelets. Each component has a unique role:

• Red blood cells: These cells carry oxygen to body tissues and remove carbon dioxide. They contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds oxygen. Anemia is a condition related to a deficiency of red blood cells, causing symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness because the blood cannot carry enough oxygen to meet the body's needs.
• White blood cells: These are part of the immune system, fighting infections by targeting invading pathogens. They can be used in transfusions to help patients with immune deficiencies or those receiving chemotherapy.
• Platelets: These fragments help in clotting blood at wound sites. Platelet transfusions are necessary for patients who are bleeding excessively or have conditions like thrombocytopenia that prevent normal clotting.
• Plasma: This liquid portion contains water, salts, enzymes, antibodies, and other proteins. Plasma transfusions are given to patients with liver failure, severe infections, or burns to replace lost fluids and provide critical proteins for blood clotting and immunity.

Overall, each element of blood has a specific function that is crucial for maintaining homeostasis in the body.

Answer 2

Blood consists of plasma, red and white blood cells, and platelets. Each component plays a specific role in body functions and may be the subject of a transfusion to treat various conditions like anemia, immunodeficiencies, and clotting disorders.

Step-by-step explanation:

Components of Blood and Transfusion Needs

Blood is vital for carrying nutrients, gases, and wastes throughout the body, defending against infections, and maintaining homeostasis. The components of blood include plasma, red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. Plasma is mostly water, containing plasma proteins like albumin, globulins, and fibrinogen, as well as electrolytes and gases, making blood a sticky fluid. Plasma is necessary for carrying these proteins and solutes throughout the body.

Red blood cells are specialized for oxygen delivery to body cells due to the presence of hemoglobin. Patients with anemia may require RBC transfusions to alleviate symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath caused by low oxygen-carrying capacity. White blood cells play a key role in the immune response, and individuals with leukopenia might need WBC transfusions to bolster their immune system. Platelets and clotting factors in plasma are crucial for blood coagulation; those with clotting disorders may receive transfusions of platelets or plasma to prevent excessive bleeding.