MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

What color is venous blood typically associated with during bleeding?

1. Light red

2. Dark red

3. Pale yellow

4. Bright red

The correct answer is: Dark red

Venous blood is typically associated with a dark red color during bleeding. This darker hue is primarily due to the lower oxygen content in venous blood compared to arterial blood. When blood returns from the body's tissues, it has released its oxygen to those tissues and taken up carbon dioxide, resulting in a color that ranges from a deep, dark red to a purple shade. In contrast, arterial blood, which is rich in oxygen, is bright red. The distinction in color is crucial in both medical practice and assessment of a person's condition, as it can provide immediate visual cues regarding the type of bleeding a person might be experiencing. Understanding the coloration helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about diagnosis and treatment.