What word is used to describe the breakdown of red blood cells?

The term that describes the breakdown of red blood cells is "hemolysis." This process involves the destruction of erythrocytes, leading to the release of hemoglobin into the surrounding fluid. Hemolysis can occur for various reasons, including autoimmune disorders, infections, blood transfusion reactions, or certain medical conditions like hemolytic anemia. Understanding this term is vital in the field of nursing, as it can relate to patient assessments, lab results, and potential treatment pathways.

The other terms provided are distinct in meaning. Erythema refers to redness of the skin due to increased blood flow to an area, often associated with inflammation or infection, rather than the destruction of blood cells. Erythrocytosis indicates an increase in the number of red blood cells, which is the opposite of breakdown. Hemostasis refers to the process of stopping bleeding or maintaining blood fluidity, focusing on the prevention of blood loss rather than the breakdown of cells. Knowing these definitions helps clarify the specific processes related to blood cell dynamics and their implications for patient care.