Which type of blood cell is mainly responsible for clotting?

Study for the MedCa Phlebotomy Technician Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations to enhance learning. Ace your exam!

Thrombocytes, commonly known as platelets, are the type of blood cells primarily responsible for clotting. When a blood vessel is injured, thrombocytes adhere to the site of damage, becoming activated and forming a temporary "platelet plug." This process is crucial for stopping bleeding and initiating the healing process. Thrombocytes release chemicals that further attract more platelets to the area and activate the clotting cascade, leading to the formation of a stable blood clot.

In contrast, erythrocytes (red blood cells) primarily function to transport oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and return carbon dioxide to be exhaled. Leukocytes (white blood cells) play a key role in the immune response, helping to defend the body against infections and foreign substances. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell involved in the production of antibodies but do not participate directly in the clotting process. Therefore, among these options, thrombocytes are the only cells specialized for clotting activities.

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