EKG Ch 3

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary specific to anatomy and physiology, focusing on body systems, structures, and functions.

Anatomy

The study of the parts of the body.

Physiology

The study of how the body functions.

Homeostasis

A state of balance and stability in the body.

Cardiovascular System

The system that circulates blood, gases, and nutrients throughout the body.

Integumentary System

Protects internal organs, retains body fluids, and helps maintain body temperature.

Musculoskeletal System

Provides structure and movement to the body.

Metabolism

The physical and chemical processes in the body to maintain homeostasis.

Thorax

The chest area of the body.

Axilla

The armpit area.

Superior

Toward the head.

Inferior

Away from the head.

Medial

Toward the midline of the body.

Lateral

Away from the midline of the body.

Proximal

Closer to the torso.

Distal

Farther from the torso.

Anterior

The front of the body.

Posterior

The back of the body.

Epicardium

The outermost layer of the heart.

Myocardium

The middle layer of the heart, responsible for its contractions.

Endocardium

The innermost layer of the heart.

Tricuspid Valve

The valve between the right atrium and the right ventricle.

Bicuspid Valve

The valve between the left atrium and the left ventricle.

Pulmonary Valve

The valve between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery.

Aortic Valve

The valve between the left ventricle and the aorta.

Ventricles

The lower chambers of the heart that pump blood.

Atria

The upper chambers of the heart that receive blood.

Arteries

Blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart.

Veins

Blood vessels that carry oxygen-depleted blood back to the heart.

Capillaries

Small blood vessels where the exchange of gases and nutrients occurs.

Coronary Arteries

Arteries that supply oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle.

Pulmonary Circuit

The circulation of blood between the heart and the lungs.

Systemic Circuit

The circulation of blood between the heart and the rest of the body.

Nervous System

The system that controls and coordinates body functions.

Stimuli

Information from outside the body that the nervous system responds to.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells that transport oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Leukocytes

White blood cells that protect the body against infection.

Thrombocytes

Platelets that play a role in blood clotting.

Hypoxia

Inadequate oxygen supply in the tissues.

Valves

Structures that prevent backflow of blood in the heart.

Systole

The contraction phase of the heart cycle.

Diastole

The relaxation phase of the heart cycle.

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.

Intercostal Muscles

Muscles between the ribs that assist with breathing.

Diaphragm

The muscle that separates the thoracic and abdominal cavities and aids in respiration.

Alveoli

Tiny sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs.

Bronchioles

Small air passages in the lungs.

Mediastinum

Central compartment of the thoracic cavity where the heart is located.

Medial

Closer to the midline of the body.

Lateral

Farther from the midline of the body.