Understanding Plasma Volume Expanders

What are the main types of plasma expanders?

• Antibiotics and analgesics

• Electrolytes and vitamins

• Colloids and crystalloids

• Hormones and enzymes

How do colloid solutions function as plasma expanders?

• They act as a diuretic, promoting fluid loss from the body.

• They decrease blood volume by removing fluid from the bloodstream.

• Colloid solutions function as plasma expanders by increasing oncotic pressure, drawing fluid into the bloodstream and expanding blood volume.

• They function by increasing blood cell production in the bone marrow.

What is the mechanism of action of crystalloids?

• Crystalloids primarily act as vasodilators.

• Crystalloids are used to decrease blood pressure.

• Crystalloids work by restoring fluid balance and increasing intravascular volume.

• Crystalloids function by promoting protein synthesis.

List two clinical uses of plasma expanders.

• Reducing cholesterol levels

• Enhancing oxygen delivery in healthy individuals

• Treating hypovolemic shock, managing fluid loss during surgery

• Increasing blood pressure in hypertensive patients

What are the potential side effects of using dextran as a plasma expander?

• Enhanced blood clotting

• Increased appetite

• Potential side effects of using dextran as a plasma expander include allergic reactions, anaphylaxis, fluid overload, bleeding complications, and renal impairment.

• Improved kidney function

How does albumin work as a plasma volume expander?

• Albumin binds to oxygen, enhancing its delivery to tissues.

• Albumin works as a plasma volume expander by increasing oncotic pressure, drawing fluid into the bloodstream.

• Albumin decreases blood volume by promoting fluid loss.

• Albumin acts as a hormone to regulate blood pressure.

What is the recommended dosage of hydroxyethyl starch in adults?

• 1500 to 2000 mL intravenously, based on patient weight.

• 250 mL orally, twice a day.

• 500 to 1000 mL intravenously, depending on clinical situation.

• 200 to 300 mL intravenously, regardless of clinical situation.

In what situations are plasma expanders typically used?

• During routine check-ups

• Plasma expanders are used in hypovolemia, trauma, surgery, and severe burns.

• For treating infections

• In cases of dehydration

What are the differences between isotonic and hypertonic solutions?

• Isotonic solutions have a higher concentration of solutes than hypertonic solutions.

• Isotonic solutions cause cells to swell, while hypertonic solutions maintain cell shape.

• Isotonic solutions maintain cell shape, while hypertonic solutions cause cells to shrink.

• Hypertonic solutions maintain cell shape, while isotonic solutions cause cells to shrink.

What side effects are associated with the use of crystalloids?

• Improved kidney function

• Enhanced immune response

• Side effects of crystalloids include fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances, and tissue edema.

• Increased appetite