What is the main purpose of white blood corpuscles?

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse - 2017

Explanation

White blood cells (WBCs), or leukocytes, are the primary cells of the body's immune system.
Their main function is to identify, attack, and destroy invading pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Different types of WBCs have specialized roles; for example, neutrophils are phagocytic (they engulf invaders), and lymphocytes produce antibodies.
They are essential for providing defense and immunity against diseases.

Option A: Carrying nutrients is the primary function of blood plasma, not white blood cells. Plasma is the liquid component of blood that transports glucose, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
Option C: Carrying oxygen is the main purpose of red blood cells (erythrocytes). The protein hemoglobin within RBCs binds to oxygen in the lungs and transports it to the body's tissues.
Option D: Giving strength is not a physiological function of any blood component. Strength is related to the musculoskeletal system and overall metabolic health, not directly to blood cells.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Function of White Blood Corpuscles (Leukocytes) helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Monitoring the WBC count is a fundamental nursing assessment to check for signs of infection or immunosuppression.
A high WBC count (leukocytosis) may prompt a nurse to look for other signs of infection like fever, redness, or swelling, and to obtain cultures as ordered.
A low WBC count (leukopenia) requires the nurse to implement neutropenic precautions to protect the patient from potentially life-threatening infections.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question: 'white blood corpuscles' (WBCs).
Recall the basic functions of the different components of blood.
Evaluate each option based on your knowledge. Ask yourself, 'Is this the primary role of WBCs?'
Option A (nutrients) relates to plasma. Option C (oxygen) relates to red blood cells. Option D (strength) is not a function of blood.
This leaves Option B (combat infection), which is the well-established primary function of the immune cells known as WBCs.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QWZUrXbASH9aHanWzmSqo4

E6 Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry2023 (pp 26-793 of 813) p. 648-650

E6 Anatomy Applied Ashalatha 4e p. 153-155

E6 Physiology Essentials Sembulingam 10e Part 1 p. 114-116

Practise the full NHM UP Staff Nurse - 2017

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.