$$\text{HCT} = \frac{\text{Volume of red blood cells}}{\text{Total blood volume}} \times 100$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main function of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the human body?

Accepted Answer

They transport oxygen from the lungs to body tissues and carry some carbon dioxide back to the lungs.

Question 2

A patient presents with a hematocrit (HCT) of 30%. Which of the following best describes the likely physiological consequence?

Accepted Answer

Reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, possibly leading to tissue hypoxia.

Question 3

Which plasma protein is most responsible for maintaining osmotic pressure in the blood, and what percentage of plasma proteins does it represent?

Accepted Answer

Albumins; 60%

Question 4

A blood sample is centrifuged. Which layer contains the majority of white blood cells and platelets?

Accepted Answer

The buffy coat between the plasma and red blood cells

Question 5

Which of the following equations correctly represents the calculation of hematocrit (HCT)?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{HCT} = \frac{	ext{Volume of red blood cells}}{	ext{Total blood volume}} 	imes 100$$

Question 6

Which dietary deficiency would most directly impair hemoglobin synthesis and lead to microcytic anemia?

Accepted Answer

Iron deficiency

Question 7

A patient with type B blood receives type A blood in a transfusion. What is the most likely immediate consequence?

Accepted Answer

Agglutination of donor red blood cells due to anti-A antibodies in the recipient's plasma.

Question 8

Which of the following best explains why red blood cells are biconcave in shape?

Accepted Answer

To maximize surface area for gas exchange and allow flexibility through capillaries.

Question 9

Which white blood cell type is most abundant in a normal blood smear and is a strong phagocyte?

Accepted Answer

Neutrophil

Question 10

A patient with a genetic defect resulting in low platelet counts is at increased risk for which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Increased risk of internal bleeding due to impaired hemostasis

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the sequence of events in blood coagulation after tissue injury?

Accepted Answer

Vascular spasm → platelet plug formation → prothrombin activator formation → thrombin formation → fibrin formation

Question 12

Which of the following is a correct statement about the ABO blood group system?

Accepted Answer

Type AB blood has neither anti-A nor anti-B antibodies in the plasma.

Question 13

Which of the following best explains the role of erythropoietin in red blood cell production?

Accepted Answer

It is released by the kidneys and liver in response to low blood oxygen, stimulating red bone marrow to increase RBC production.

Question 14

A patient with a pulmonary embolism is most likely experiencing which of the following?

Accepted Answer

A blood clot that has traveled and blocked a vessel in the lung.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the fate of the heme portion of hemoglobin after red blood cells are destroyed?

Accepted Answer

It is decomposed into iron and biliverdin; iron is recycled or stored, and biliverdin is converted to bilirubin and excreted in bile.

Question 16

Which of the following is a function of plasma proteins?

Accepted Answer

They help maintain osmotic pressure, transport substances, and aid in blood clotting.

Question 17

A woman with Rh-negative blood is pregnant with an Rh-positive fetus. What is the risk if she is not treated with RhoGAM?

Accepted Answer

She may develop anti-Rh antibodies that can attack the red blood cells of a future Rh-positive fetus, causing hemolytic disease of the newborn.

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the process of diapedesis?

Accepted Answer

The movement of white blood cells out of the bloodstream by squeezing between endothelial cells to reach tissues.

Question 19

Which of the following is the most abundant electrolyte in plasma and is important for maintaining osmotic pressure?

Accepted Answer

Sodium

Chapter 12: Blood – Structure, Function, and Clinical Relevance

Study Guide - Practice Questions