Functions and Electrical Activity of the Heart

Flashcards covering key concepts related to the functions of blood, the heart, and blood vessels, as well as the electrical activity of the heart and blood pressure.

Sinoatrial (SA) Node

The pacemaker of the heart located in the right atrium that initiates each heartbeat.

Atrioventricular (AV) Node

Located between the atria and ventricles; delays the electrical signal to allow for ventricular filling.

Bundle of His

A pathway for electrical signals to travel from the AV node to the ventricles.

Purkinje Fibers

Fibers that help distribute the electrical signal throughout the ventricles causing them to contract.

EKG (Electrocardiogram)

A test that records the electrical activity of the heart, showing rate, rhythm, strength, and timing.

P wave

Represents the contraction of the atria.

QRS complex

Represents the contraction of the ventricles while the atria relax.

T wave

Represents the relaxation and recharging of the ventricles.

Systolic pressure

The pressure in the arteries during the contraction of the ventricles.

Diastolic pressure

The pressure in the arteries during the relaxation of the ventricles.