Unit Two: Lecture Content

Blood Overview

Regions visible in a sample of whole blood spun down by centrifugation. What components are present in each region, and what is the function of each?

Plasma: Fluid Matrix with dissolved nutrients and wastes-55% of whole blood-helps nutrients flow in blood stream (top)

Buffy Coat: middle layer-1% of whole blood, ALL white blood cells and platekets, white blood cells patrol for pathogenic invaders and help with immunity and platelets are essential for clotting

Red blood cells: Spin to the bottom-45% of whole blood, spin to the bottom due to the iron in hemoglobin- they function to carry oxygen

Significance of blood types (ABO and Rh-factor groups) in terms of antigens present on erythrocytes and circulating antibodies, as well as which blood types could be safely transfused to a patient with each blood type: (This video saved me in Survey of Human Systems)