Cardiovascular Function Lecture Notes

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to cardiovascular function and pathology.

Cardiovascular System

Composed of the heart, blood vessels, and lymphatic vessels.

Heart Anatomy

Includes the pericardium, myocardium, and endocardium.

Pericardium

Membrane surrounding the heart, with parietal and visceral layers.

Chambers of the Heart

Consists of right and left atria, right and left ventricles.

Great Vessels

Includes the superior and inferior vena cava, pulmonary arteries and veins, and aorta.

Cardiac Auscultation

The process of listening to heart sounds using a stethoscope.

Blood Flow Through the Heart

Describes how blood flows from the vena cavae through the heart to the lungs and back to the body.

Sinoatrial Node (SA Node)

The natural pacemaker of the heart, responsible for initiating electrical impulses.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

A recording of the electrical activity of the heart.

Blood Pressure Equation

Blood Pressure (BP) = Cardiac Output (CO) x Peripheral Vascular Resistance (PVR).

Dyslipidemia

Abnormal levels of lipids in the blood, which increase the risk for atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis

Hardening and narrowing of arteries due to plaque buildup.

Heart Failure

A condition where the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.

Myocardial Infarction

Commonly known as a heart attack, caused by blockage of blood flow to the heart.

Valvular Disorders

Conditions affecting heart valves, including stenosis, regurgitation, and prolapse.

Lymphedema

Swelling due to lymphatic obstruction, which can stem from congenital or acquired causes.

Shock

A critical condition brought on by the sudden drop in blood flow through the body.