Cardiovascular System Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts from the cardiovascular system lecture to aid in exam preparation.

What are the main components of the cardiovascular system?

Blood, blood vessels, and the heart.

What is the primary function of the heart?

To pump blood and generate pressure.

Where is the heart located in the thoracic cavity?

In the mediastinum, medial to the lungs and superior to the diaphragm.

What are the two types of circulation that the heart separates?

Pulmonary circulation and systemic circulation.

What are the layers of the heart wall?

Epicardium, myocardium, and endocardium.

What are the functions of the cardiovascular system?

Transport of gases, nutrients, metabolic wastes; protection; and regulation of fluid balance, pH, body temperature, and blood pressure.

Which side of the heart receives deoxygenated blood?

The right side.

What is the function of the valves in the heart?

To prevent backflow of blood.

How does blood flow from the right atrium to the lungs?

It flows from the right atrium to the right ventricle, and then exits through the pulmonary trunk.

What is the role of the coronary circulation?

To supply blood to the heart muscle itself.

What is the significance of the fossa ovalis in the heart?

It is a remnant of the fetal foramen ovale that existed in the atrial septum.

Describe systemic circulation.

Oxygenated blood is transported from the left atrium to the left ventricle, then pumped out to the body via the aorta.

What are the major anatomical structures of the heart?

Heart coverings, chambers, valves, and the interventricular and interatrial septa.

How does exercise affect cardiac output?

Exercise increases cardiac output due to elevated metabolic demands of tissues.

What is the function of the pericardium?

To protect the heart and anchor it within the mediastinum.

What are the components of blood?

Red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma.

What causes the heart valves to open and close?

Changes in blood pressure within the heart chambers.

What are the names of the valves between the atria and ventricles?

Atrioventricular (AV) valves: tricuspid and bicuspid (mitral) valves.