Circulatory and Respiratory Systems & First Aid Emergency Response

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering cardiovascular anatomy and physiology, respiratory structures and mechanics, vital signs and clinical changes, first aid core principles, and emergency drug kit components.

Blood

A fluid that carries oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells throughout the body; composed of red cells, white cells, platelets, and plasma, with an adult having about $5\text{–}6\,\text{litres}$.

White blood cells (Leukocytes)

Cells found throughout the blood and lymphatic system that protect the body against infectious diseases and foreign invaders; includes neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils.

Platelets

Small cell fragments that initiate blood clotting when vessels are damaged, essential for preventing excessive bleeding after injury.

Plasma

The yellowish fluid component that makes up about $55\%$ of blood volume; contains proteins, electrolytes, hormones, and nutrients.

Atria

The upper chambers of the heart that receive blood returning to the heart.

Ventricles

The lower chambers of the heart that pump blood out of the heart.

Coronary Arteries

Vessels that supply the heart muscle with oxygen-rich blood.

Aorta

The largest artery in the body; delivers oxygenated blood to the body.

Vena Cava

The largest veins in the body; returns deoxygenated blood to the heart.

Capillaries

Microscopic blood vessels with thin walls that serve as the site of nutrient and gas exchange.

Alveoli

Tiny air sacs surrounded by capillaries where gases transfer between air and blood across a vast surface area.

Trachea (windpipe)

A respiratory passage that carries air from the throat to the bronchi in the lungs.

Inhalation

The respiratory process in which the diaphragm contracts and flattens, creating negative pressure to draw air in.

Exhalation

The respiratory process in which the diaphragm relaxes, creating positive pressure to expel air.

Tachypnoea

Rapid breathing (above $20\,\text{breaths/min}$) that may indicate shock, asthma, or heart problems.

Bradypnoea

Slow breathing (below $12\,\text{breaths/min}$) that may indicate brain injury or overdose.

Tachycardia

A fast heart rate (above $100\,\text{beats/min}$) that may indicate blood loss, pain, or stress.

Bradycardia

A slow heart rate (below $60\,\text{beats/min}$) that may indicate heart block or damage.

Cyanosis

A bluish discolouration of the skin or tissues indicating oxygen deficiency.

Preserve life (P1)

The primary objective among the key principles of first aid.

Prevent worsening (P2)

A key principle of first aid focused on taking actions to stabilise the casualty's condition.

Promote recovery (P3)

A key principle of first aid focused on supporting the healing process.

Aspirin

An emergency medication ($300\,\text{mg}$ tablets) given to be chewed by patients experiencing chest pain.

Glucagon

An injectable medication used to treat severe hypoglycaemia in diabetic patients who are unable to consume oral glucose.

Midazolam

A preparation used for the emergency management of prolonged epileptic seizures, acting as an anticonvulsant.

Adrenaline – epinephrine

Auto-injectors or ampoules used for treating anaphylaxis and severe allergic reactions.

Glyceryl trinitrate (GTN)

A spray or tablets for sublingual administration to relieve angina by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow to the heart.

Salbutamol

An inhaler medication for relieving bronchospasm in asthma attacks by relaxing the muscles in the airways and improving breathing.