Anesthesia Technician Practice Exam

What is the primary function of colloids in anesthesia?

1. Decrease blood pressure

2. Increase plasma volume

3. Reduce heart rate

4. Enhance oxygen delivery

The correct answer is: Increase plasma volume

Colloids play a crucial role in anesthesia primarily by increasing plasma volume. This is achieved through the osmotic properties of colloid solutions, which contain large molecules that cannot easily pass through the capillary walls. When colloids are administered intravenously, they attract and hold water in the vascular space, resulting in an expansion of the intravascular volume. This can be particularly important during surgical procedures where blood loss might occur, helping to maintain adequate blood pressure and circulation. By increasing plasma volume, colloids help to optimize hemodynamic stability, ensuring that vital organs receive sufficient blood flow and oxygenation during anesthesia and surgery. Therefore, the capacity of colloids to augment plasma volume directly supports the overall goal of maintaining adequate perfusion during critical perioperative times.