OSMT (Ontario Society of Medical Technologists) Practice Exam

Question: 1 / 400

What is the mineral needed for chemical clotting?

Iron

Calcium

Calcium is crucial for the process of chemical clotting because it acts as a cofactor in various steps of the coagulation cascade. This cascade involves a series of complex biochemical reactions that ultimately lead to the formation of a fibrin clot. Calcium ions facilitate the activation of several clotting factors, which are proteins that play critical roles in this process. Without adequate calcium, the body would struggle to effectively form blood clots, which are essential for stopping bleeding and maintaining hemostasis.

The other minerals listed have different physiological roles; for instance, iron is primarily important for oxygen transport in the blood, sodium is vital for fluid balance and nerve function, and potassium is essential for muscle contraction and heart function. These roles are important, but they do not directly contribute to the clotting mechanism in the way calcium does.

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Sodium

Potassium

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