What is the typical volume of blood in a single unit of packed red blood cells?

A single unit of packed red blood cells typically has a volume of approximately 450 mL. This volume represents the concentrated portion of blood that has been separated through the process of centrifugation, which removes much of the plasma and other components, leaving a higher concentration of red blood cells.

The significance of this volume is crucial for various medical procedures, as packed red blood cells are commonly used for transfusions to treat anemia or significant blood loss. Understanding this standard volume is essential for healthcare professionals to ensure proper dosing and management during transfusion therapy.

While the other options are close to the actual volume, they do not accurately reflect the standard measurement recognized in clinical practice. Knowing the correct volume helps prevent complications related to transfusions, such as transfusion reactions or fluid overload, thereby making it an important aspect of patient care in medical settings.