Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

What is the purpose of adding anticoagulant solution to blood collected from the surgical field?

1. To enhance oxygenation

2. To prevent clot formation

3. To preserve blood volume

4. To improve transfusion compatibility

The correct answer is: To prevent clot formation

The purpose of adding anticoagulant solution to blood collected from the surgical field is to prevent clot formation. When blood is exposed to surgical instruments and tissues, it can trigger the coagulation cascade, leading to the formation of clots. This is particularly critical in a surgical setting where maintaining the integrity of the blood for potential transfusion is necessary. Anticoagulants work by interfering with various steps in the coagulation process, thus allowing the blood to remain in a liquid state. This is essential not only for managing blood loss during surgery but also for ensuring that the collected blood can be safely stored and used for transfusions later. Maintaining the blood in a non-clotted state is crucial for its functionality, as clotted blood cannot be effectively transfused back into a patient. The other options do not accurately reflect the primary role of anticoagulants in this context. Enhancing oxygenation, preserving blood volume, and improving transfusion compatibility are relevant factors in managing blood during surgical procedures, but they do not directly relate to the specific action of anticoagulant solutions which is to prevent clot formation.