Chapter 26: Circulatory System

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts related to the circulatory system as outlined in the lecture notes.

Circulatory System

System essential for life, includes heart, blood, arteries, veins, and capillaries.

Oxygen Flow

Primary function of the circulatory system, delivering oxygen to body tissues.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body.

Hematology

Study of blood.

Hemoglobin

Protein in red blood cells that binds oxygen for transport.

Cardiac Cycle

Includes one complete contraction and relaxation phase of the heart.

Arrhythmias

Change in heart’s rhythm, rate, or conduction.

Tachycardia

Heart beating faster than normal.

Bradycardia

Heart beating slower than normal.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Trace of electrical activity of the heart.

Arteries

Blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart.

Veins

Blood vessels that carry blood back to the heart.

Vasoconstriction

Narrowing of blood vessels that increases blood pressure.

Vasodilation

Widening of blood vessels that decreases blood pressure.

Blood Pressure

Measurement of the force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels.

Hypovolemic Shock

Shock caused by insufficient blood volume from blood loss.

Septic Shock

Shock resulting from severe infection affecting blood flow.

Myocardium

Thick muscular wall of the heart.

Pericardium

Sac that covers and protects the heart.

Platelets

Cell fragments that assist in blood clotting.

White Blood Cells (WBCs)

Cells that are part of the immune system, defending against infection.

Sinoatrial Node (SA Node)

The pacemaker of the heart that controls heart rhythm.

Valves

Structures in the heart that prevent backflow of blood.

Capillaries

Smallest blood vessels where exchange of gases occurs.

Fibrinogen

Plasma protein that aids in blood clotting.

Albumin

Protein in plasma that draws water into the bloodstream.