Question

You're collecting a blood culture from an infant, 3 kg (6.6 lbs). What's the total blood volume for this infant?

A. 100-190 mL
B. 60-150 mL
C. 240-330 mL
D. 150-240 mL

Answer 1

The total blood volume for an infant weighing 3 kg is approximately 240-330 mL.

Step-by-step explanation:

The average volume of blood in an adult male is 4.7 L, which is equivalent to 4,700 mL. However, since the infant in question weighs 3 kg, we need to determine the total blood volume for an infant of this weight. According to the information provided, blood constitutes approximately 8 percent of adult body weight. Therefore, we can calculate the blood volume for the infant by multiplying their weight (in kg) by 0.08:

3 kg × 0.08 = 0.24 kg (or 240 grams)

Since 1 mL of blood weighs approximately 1 gram, we can also express the blood volume in milliliters:

0.24 kg × 1 mL/g = 0.24 mL (or 240 mL)

So, the answer is C. 240-330 mL.