During an automobile accident where the patient is bleeding heavily, which vascular component is the most distensible and can store large quantities of blood that can be returned to the circulation at this time of need?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Compliance refers to the total quantity of blood that can be stored in a given portion of the circulation for each mm Hg rise in pressure. The most distensible of all vessels are the veins, which can increase their volume with only slight changes in pressure. This allows the veins to function as a reservoir for storing large quantities of blood that can be returned to the circulation when it is needed. The liver, pancreas, and kidneys are not vascular components.

During an Automobile Accident Where the Patient Is Bleeding Heavily