Milady Esthetics State Board Practice Test

What do blood vessels primarily transport?

1. Amino acids

2. Oxygen and nutrients

3. Carbon dioxide and hormones

4. Both oxygen and carbon dioxide

The correct answer is: Both oxygen and carbon dioxide

Blood vessels primarily transport vital substances throughout the body, and understanding this function is critical in the field of esthetics, as it pertains to skin health and overall bodily function. The primary role of blood vessels is to circulate blood, which carries a variety of important components. Oxygen is transported by red blood cells from the lungs to tissues throughout the body, where it is used for cellular respiration and energy production. In turn, blood vessels also transport carbon dioxide, a waste product generated from metabolism, back to the lungs for exhalation. This dual transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide is essential for maintaining the proper gas exchange necessary for cellular function and overall homeostasis. While amino acids and nutrients are indeed transported by the blood, they are not the primary focus regarding the question about blood vessels as a whole. Hormones also travel through the bloodstream; however, the key function of blood vessels in the context of gas exchange directly pertains to both oxygen and carbon dioxide, making this the most relevant answer here. Understanding this basic function of blood vessels can help in appreciating how they play a crucial role in the body’s physiological processes.