What type of solution would be used to achieve equal osmotic pressure with blood cells?

An isotonic solution is one that has the same osmotic pressure as blood cells, which means it contains equal concentrations of solutes compared to the interior of the cells. When immersed in an isotonic solution, there is no net movement of water into or out of the cells, allowing them to maintain their normal shape and function. This is crucial in medical settings, such as during intravenous therapy, where it is essential to avoid disrupting the balance of fluids within the cells to prevent cell damage or dysfunction.

In contrast, a hypertonic solution has a higher concentration of solutes compared to the inside of the cells, which can lead to water leaving the cells and causing them to shrink. A hypotonic solution, on the other hand, has a lower concentration of solutes, resulting in water moving into the cells, potentially leading to swelling and bursting. A buffered solution primarily serves to maintain a stable pH rather than achieving equal osmotic pressure with blood cells, and hence does not relate directly to this context.