What percentage of total blood volume can blood losses through diagnostic sampling represent in infants?

In infants, particularly neonates, the percentage of total blood volume that blood losses through diagnostic sampling can represent is indeed significant. Typically, in infants, the total blood volume is much smaller than that of adults, often approximately 70-80 mL per kilogram of body weight. Therefore, even a relatively small volume of blood loss from diagnostic procedures can represent a large percentage of their total blood volume.

When considering the options given, 45% is a plausible representation of blood loss through diagnostic sampling in infants. This means that if an infant were to lose blood through sampling, it could equate to a substantial fraction of their total blood volume, potentially impacting their health and requiring careful monitoring. Losing 45% of total blood volume is critical, highlighting the importance of limiting blood draws and ensuring they are necessary and as minimal as possible.

The other percentages presented are either too high or exceed safe limits for infants. For example, if blood losses represented 60% or more, it would likely lead to severe complications or even be life-threatening. Hence, recognizing that blood loss of 45% is significant and can pose risks in infants is crucial for maintaining their health during diagnostic testing.