The average life span of platelets is

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2022

Explanation

Platelets, or thrombocytes, are anucleate cell fragments derived from megakaryocytes in the bone marrow.
According to physiological data, platelets circulate in the bloodstream for an average of 7 to 10 days.
After their lifespan, they are cleared from circulation by macrophages, mainly in the spleen and liver.
Their primary function is to initiate hemostasis by forming a platelet plug at sites of vascular injury.

Option A: A lifespan of 3-5 days is too short for normal platelets and is typically associated with pathological conditions.
Option C: This timeframe significantly overestimates the normal circulatory life of a platelet.
Option D: This is a substantial overestimation of the platelet lifespan, which is not supported by hematological principles.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Physiology of blood components: Platelet lifespan as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A nurse must understand the normal platelet lifespan to interpret a complete blood count (CBC). A low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) increases the risk of bleeding, while a high count (thrombocytosis) increases the risk of clotting.
For patients with thrombocytopenia, nurses must implement bleeding precautions, such as using a soft toothbrush, avoiding razors, and preventing falls, to ensure patient safety.
What if? If a patient has a splenectomy (spleen removed), their platelet count may transiently or persistently rise because a primary site for platelet removal and sequestration is no longer present.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the keywords in the question: 'average life span' and 'platelets'.
This is a factual recall question that requires knowledge of basic hematology.
Recall the normal physiological values for the lifespans of different blood cells.
Remember that platelets are short-lived compared to red blood cells (120 days) but have a specific lifespan.
Evaluate the given options and select the range that matches the known average lifespan of 7 to 10 days.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 978-980

E6 Physiology Guyton 4SAE Part 1 p. 172-174

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