12 10.1 Introduction to Blood
Learning Objectives
Course Competency:
- Analyze how components of the cardiovascular system function in the body
Chapter Objectives
This chapter will focus on the following objectives related to this course competency:
- Describe the microscopic components of blood
- Summarize the functions of blood and each of its components
- Describe the basis for blood typing
The human body is a complex organism that needs blood to deliver oxygen and nutrients and also remove wastes from trillions of cells. The heart pumps this blood throughout the body through a network of blood vessels. Together, these three components—blood, heart, and vessels—make up the cardiovascular system.
Hematology is the study of blood cells (erythrocytes, leukocytes, and platelets) and the tissues that form them. This chapter will discuss the functions, characteristics, and components of blood. The process by which blood is produced, as well as the different blood types, will also be discussed. Lastly, common hematological disorders will be described.
The body system made up of the heart and blood vessels that circulate blood to deliver oxygen and nutrients and remove waste products.
The study of blood cells (erythrocytes, leukocytes, and platelets) and the tissues that form them.
