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What is one of the key benefits of collecting salvaged blood during surgery?

  1. Increased blood volume

  2. To reduce the risk of blood transfusion reactions

  3. Improvement of oxygen transport

  4. To lower the patient's blood pressure

The correct answer is: Improvement of oxygen transport

Collecting salvaged blood during surgery primarily serves to improve oxygen transport within the body. When blood is salvaged, it allows for the reuse of a patient's own blood that may have been lost during the surgical procedure, helping to maintain adequate hemoglobin levels and ensuring that oxygen is effectively delivered to vital tissues. This process is particularly beneficial as it prevents the dilution of red blood cells that can occur with intravenous fluids. While increasing blood volume and reducing the risk of transfusion reactions are also important considerations, the direct impact on oxygen transport is a key advantage. This method minimizes the need for allogeneic blood transfusions, which inherently carry risks such as transfusion reactions and transmission of infectious diseases. Therefore, the correct choice emphasizes the critical role that salvaged blood plays in sustaining oxygen delivery, which is essential for patient recovery and overall organ function during and after surgery.