Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

How does the addition of anticoagulant impact the blood collected during surgery?

1. Enhances storage time

2. Prevents clotting

3. Improves viscosity

4. Increases hematocrit

The correct answer is: Prevents clotting

The addition of anticoagulant to blood collected during surgery is essential for preventing clotting. Anticoagulants work by inhibiting specific factors in the coagulation cascade, thereby ensuring that the blood remains in a liquid state. This is particularly important during surgical procedures, where blood loss can occur, and there is a need to manage the collected blood for transfusion purposes or analysis. Without anticoagulants, blood would begin to clot almost immediately once it leaves the body, which could lead to complications, such as clot formation in the collection bag or devices, making it difficult to manage and use the blood effectively. The use of anticoagulants facilitates a better blood management process, allowing for easier handling and preservation until it can be transfused or processed. The other choices do not accurately reflect the primary role of anticoagulants in this context. While anticoagulants can indirectly enhance storage time by preventing clot formation, their primary and most direct effect is the prevention of clotting itself.