How many mL of total solution is infused when administering two units of packed red blood cells followed by 500 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride?

To determine the total volume of the solution infused, one must consider the volume associated with both the packed red blood cells and the saline solution. Typically, one unit of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) has a volume of approximately 300 mL. Therefore, when two units are administered, the total volume for the PRBCs alone would be around 600 mL (300 mL/unit x 2 units).

Next, an additional 500 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride is infused. Adding this volume to the previously calculated 600 mL for the packed red blood cells provides a total of 1100 mL (600 mL for the PRBCs + 500 mL for the saline).

However, the question is asking specifically about the total solution, which may lead to a miscalculation if one does not consider the practice setting or the procedure used for transfusion. When administering packed red blood cells, additional saline is often added to ensure patency of the line and to facilitate the transfusion.

For clarity, if one considers the procedure typical in practice, the overall volume administered during the transfusion is not merely the sums of the individual units or infusions but rather should take into account possible