Which blood component is primarily responsible for oxygen transport?

Study for the Sterile Processing Technician Exam. Review flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and explanations for each question. Prepare for your certification exam!

The primary blood component responsible for oxygen transport is red blood cells. These cells contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen in the lungs and carries it through the bloodstream to tissues and organs throughout the body. When hemoglobin binds with oxygen, it forms oxyhemoglobin, allowing efficient transport of oxygen and enabling efficient cellular respiration, which is crucial to sustaining life.

In contrast, plasma serves as the liquid medium in which blood cells are suspended and facilitates the transport of nutrients, hormones, and waste products but does not play a direct role in oxygen transport. White blood cells are integral to the immune response and combating infections but do not carry oxygen. Platelets are essential for blood clotting and wound healing, not for gas transport. Thus, red blood cells play the critical role of delivering oxygen to the body, making them essential for survival and functioning.

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