Cardiovascular System Overview

This set of flashcards covers key concepts about the cardiovascular system, including its components, functions, electrical activity, and associated medical technologies.

What are the main components of the cardiovascular system?

Blood, Blood Vessels, Heart.

What is the liquid portion of blood called?

Plasma.

What is the lifespan of red blood cells (erythrocytes)?

120 days.

What is the primary function of red blood cells?

To carry oxygen.

What are the five types of white blood cells?

Basophils, Neutrophils, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils.

What are platelets also known as?

Thrombocytes.

Where are blood cells produced in the body?

Bone marrow.

What do arteries do?

Deliver oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the tissues.

What do veins do?

Carry blood towards the heart.

What are the smallest blood vessels called?

Capillaries.

What is the function of capillaries?

Distribute oxygenated blood from arteries to tissues and feed deoxygenated blood into veins.

What are the four chambers of the heart?

Right Atrium, Left Atrium, Right Ventricle, Left Ventricle.

What is the function of the heart?

To pump blood around the body.

What is the purpose of the electrical conduction system in the heart?

To coordinate the heartbeat and ensure proper timing of contractions.

What does the P wave on an EKG represent?

Atrial depolarization.

what’s the difference between systolic and diastolic bp which one is on top and which one is on the bottom in readings

• Systolic blood pressure is the first (top/upper) number. It measures the pressure your blood is pushing against your artery walls when the heart beats.

• Diastolic blood pressure is the second (bottom/lower) number. It measures the pressure your blood is pushing against your artery walls while the heart muscle rests between beats.

What is the normal range for systolic blood pressure?

90 to 120 mmHg.

What device is used to continuously monitor heart rate and rhythm?

Cardiac telemetry.

What is the primary function of a pacemaker?

To regulate the heart's electrical conduction.

What is ventricular fibrillation?

A chaotic agitation of the ventricles, with no effective blood pumping.

What is the significance of ST-segment depression in leads V1 and V2?

It can indicate a posterior myocardial infarction (MI).