Test on Artificial Heart, Valves, and Blood

Question 1: Artificial blood, such as saline, is designed to transport oxygen throughout the body.

A. Ano

B. Ne

Explanation: Artificial blood, such as a salt solution (saline), is used to replace the lost volume of blood. Its primary function is to top up the blood volume, allowing the heart to continue pumping the remaining red blood cells, which are responsible for oxygen transport. The material states that ideally, an artificial blood product would replace the function of lost red blood cells, indicating that current artificial blood like saline does not fulfill this role.

Question 2: Artificial hearts function as effectively as healthy natural hearts, without any risk of mechanical failure.

A. Ano

B. Ne

Explanation: The study materials state that 'artificial hearts don't work as well as healthy natural ones' and that 'parts of the heart could wear out or the electrical motor could fail'. Additionally, blood doesn't flow as smoothly, which can cause blood clots.

Question 3: What is the primary goal scientists are working towards for future artificial blood products?

A. To make artificial blood products capable of being rejected by the immune system, thereby promoting recovery.

B. To develop products that can replace the function of lost red blood cells, eliminating the need for a blood transfusion.

C. To create artificial blood that only tops up the volume of blood without affecting red blood cell function.

D. To ensure artificial blood products are used only in conjunction with a full blood transfusion.

Explanation: The study materials state that 'Ideally, an artificial blood product would replace the function of the lost red blood cells, so that there's no need for a blood transfusion. Scientists are currently working on products that can do this.' This indicates the primary goal for future artificial blood products.

Question 4: According to the study materials, what is a specific problem that can arise after fitting artificial valves?

A. Electrical motor failure

B. Problems with blood clots

C. Immune system rejection

D. Wearing out of heart parts

Explanation: The study materials state: 'But fitting artificial valves is still major surgery and there can still be problems with blood clots.' The other options (electrical motor failure, immune system rejection, wearing out of heart parts) are mentioned in relation to artificial hearts, not artificial valves.

Question 5: Artificial blood is a treatment option for seriously ill patients, but it is not without its imperfections.

A. Ano

B. Ne

Explanation: The study materials state that 'if someone is really ill, it's unlikely that they'd turn down an artificial heart, artificial blood or a valve replacement — but these treatments aren't perfect.' This confirms that artificial blood is a treatment for the seriously ill and has imperfections.