Anesthesia Technician Practice Exam

Which of the following is a type of colloid?

1. Normal saline

2. Ringer's lactate

3. Albumin

4. Dextrose solution

The correct answer is: Albumin

Colloids are substances that consist of large molecules suspended in a liquid, which allows them to remain distributed throughout the solution without settling out. Albumin is a protein that is commonly used as a colloid in medical settings, particularly for volume expansion in patients who require fluid resuscitation. It is effective in increasing oncotic pressure, which helps retain fluid in the vascular space. Normal saline, Ringer's lactate, and dextrose solution are classified as crystalloid solutions. Crystalloids consist of small molecules that can freely move across semipermeable membranes and distribute evenly in the body, which results in different physiological effects compared to colloids. In contrast to colloids like albumin, crystalloids do not stay in the intravascular compartment to the same extent, influencing their use in clinical situations differently. Therefore, the classification of albumin as a colloid is critical in understanding its role in fluid management during anesthesia and critical care.