Which statement regarding washed RBCs is incorrect?

Washed red blood cells (RBCs) are subjected to a process where they are rinsed with saline to remove plasma proteins, antibodies, and any residual leukocytes. The characteristics of washed RBCs help define the correct understanding of their properties and the outcomes of the washing process.

When considering the statement about shelf life, it's essential to recognize that washing RBCs does not extend their shelf life. In fact, the processing of washing can result in a decrease in the overall viability of the cells due to agitation and exposure to different conditions. Thus, while the washing process can enhance certain safety profiles by reducing the risk of transfusion reactions related to plasma components, it does not contribute to an increased shelf life. The standard shelf life of red blood cells is typically around 42 days when stored properly, and this does not improve with washing.

In contrast, it is accurate that RBCs are washed with normal saline to help remove unwanted contaminants, that they have a specific volume often around 180 mL, and that the washing process does indeed serve to remove leukocytes to minimize transfusion-related complications like febrile non-hemolytic transfusion reactions. These details align with established protocols in blood banking and transfusion medicine, affirming the