In a dehydrated animal, what change would you typically see in total protein levels?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Study for the VTNE Laboratory Procedures Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question offers hints and explanations, enabling increased understanding and retention. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Multiple Choice

In a dehydrated animal, what change would you typically see in total protein levels?

Explanation:
When a patient is dehydrated, there is less free water in the blood, so the concentration of all solutes, including proteins, increases. Total protein measures the amount of albumin and globulins per volume of serum, so as plasma volume decreases due to fluid loss, the protein concentration rises even though the actual amount of protein may not have changed. This effect is called hemoconcentration. So, you’d expect total protein to be increased in a dehydrated animal, and it typically returns toward normal once fluids are rehydrated.

When a patient is dehydrated, there is less free water in the blood, so the concentration of all solutes, including proteins, increases. Total protein measures the amount of albumin and globulins per volume of serum, so as plasma volume decreases due to fluid loss, the protein concentration rises even though the actual amount of protein may not have changed. This effect is called hemoconcentration. So, you’d expect total protein to be increased in a dehydrated animal, and it typically returns toward normal once fluids are rehydrated.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy