With a hemoglobin level of 6.3 and a hematocrit of 18, what blood product do you expect to administer to the patient?

In a clinical scenario where a patient presents with a hemoglobin level of 6.3 g/dL and a hematocrit of 18%, the most appropriate blood product to administer is packed red blood cells (PRBCs). This decision is based on the significant anemia indicated by the low hemoglobin and hematocrit values, which suggest that the patient may not have adequate oxygen-carrying capacity.

PRBCs are specifically designed to replenish red blood cells and improve the overall oxygen delivery to tissues. When hemoglobin levels drop below 7–8 g/dL, transfusion of PRBCs is generally indicated to prevent potential complications such as fatigue, heart strain, or even organ dysfunction due to inadequate oxygenation.

The other blood products listed serve different purposes. Platelets are used primarily for patients with thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) to prevent bleeding, fresh frozen plasma is used for clotting factor deficiencies or coagulopathies, and cryoprecipitate provides fibrinogen and factor VIII to patients with bleeding disorders. Since the question centers specifically on anemia and the need to address low hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, PRBCs are the most fitting choice for treatment.