Study Guide for EKG Interpretation and Basic Pharmacology

Assessment of Learning

• Initial Self-Assessment:

  • Assess understanding by using the study guide to identify key concepts.
  • Organize notes and thoroughly read the textbook chapters.
  • Review online learning sessions found in the media gallery.
  • Utilize any provided free resources (websites, videos).
  • Study with the intention of performing on a test.

• Self-Explanation Method:

  • After studying, explain each topic without referencing any resources.
  • Record answers to evaluate understanding.
  • Cross-check answers with notes, textbooks, and online resources afterwards.

• Weekly Review:

  • Ensure weekly review of material to master concepts.
  • Avoid advancing to new material without firm grasp of the previous content.

• Green Highlighted Information:

  • Note that any concepts highlighted in green are not covered in the coursework but are available for self-research.

Study Guide for Exam 1

Anatomy and Physiology 1

• Heart Functions:

  • Able to articulate specific functions of the heart.

• Pericardium:

  • Define pericardium: A double-walled structure that surrounds the heart, providing protection and lubricating fluid.
  • Differentiate between fibrous pericardium (outer, tough layer that provides structural support) and serous pericardium (inner layer divided into parietal and visceral layers).
  • Explain pericardial space/fluid: Fluid between the layers aids in reducing friction during heartbeats.

• Heart Layers:

  • Detail the three layers of the heart:

  • Epicardium (outer layer)

  • Myocardium (muscle layer responsible for contraction)

  • Endocardium (inner layer lining heart chambers).

  • Functions of myocardium:

  • Characterized by intercalated discs (structure that allows rapid communication between cells) and the ability to depolarize on its own.

• Great Vessels:

  • Name and describe
  • Aorta: Carries oxygenated blood from the left ventricle to the body.
  • Pulmonary Arteries: Carry deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the lungs.
  • Pulmonary Veins: Carry oxygenated blood from the lungs to the left atrium.
  • Vena Cava: Brings deoxygenated blood from the body to the right atrium.

• Heart Chambers:

  • List and describe functions of four chambers:
  • Right Atrium: Receives deoxygenated blood from the body via the vena cava.
  • Right Ventricle: Pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs via pulmonary arteries.
  • Left Atrium: Receives oxygenated blood from the lungs via pulmonary veins.
  • Left Ventricle: Pumps oxygenated blood to the body via the aorta.

• Valves:

  • Purpose of valves: Prevent backflow of blood and ensure unidirectional flow.

  • Name each valve and state which areas they separate:

  • Tricuspid Valve (between right atrium and right ventricle)

  • Pulmonary Valve (between right ventricle and pulmonary artery)

  • Mitral Valve (between left atrium and left ventricle)

  • Aortic Valve (between left ventricle and aorta).

  • Explain valve mechanisms:

  • What causes valves to open and close; pressure changes in chambers determine valve action.

• Blood Flow Circuit:

  • Describe complete blood flow through the heart with all components: naming each vessel, chamber, and valve while indicating whether blood is oxygenated or deoxygenated.

• Circulatory System:

  • Define systemic circulation (pathway through which oxygenated blood is distributed to the body) and pulmonary circulation (pathway through which deoxygenated blood is sent to the lungs).

  • Identify which arteries and veins are oxygenated versus deoxygenated.

• Blood Vessel Functions:

  • Discuss specific roles:
  • Aorta: Main artery supplying oxygenated blood.
  • Arteries: Carry blood away from the heart.
  • Arterioles: Small arteries leading to capillaries.
  • Capillaries: Site of gas exchange.
  • Venules: Small vessels collecting deoxygenated blood from capillaries.
  • Veins: Return deoxygenated blood to the heart.

Educational Resources

1. Readings:

   • Read Chapter 1: Anatomy of the Cardiovascular System.

2. Video Learning:

   • Watch accompanying videos on the FREE ECG website:
     • Basic Anatomy and Physiology for ECGs.
     • Action Potential in Heart Functions.
     • Propagation of Impulses through the Heart.

3. Voice Over Media:

   • Listen to available resources in the media gallery:
     • Anatomy and Physiology of the Cardiovascular System.
     • Cardiovascular Parameters.
     • Depolarization Factors.
     • Wigger's Diagram (used to illustrate cardiac cycles).
     • Mean QRS Vector (an indicator in ECG interpretation).

4. Specific Study Topics:

   • Thoroughly explain functions of the cardiovascular system concerning both survival and exercise performance.

End of Study Guide