Q: If a person’s tidal volume is $$500\ \mathrm{mL}$$ and their respiratory rate is $$12\ \mathrm{breaths/min}$$, what is their minute ventilation?

$$500\ \mathrm{mL} \times 12\ \mathrm{breaths/min} = 6000\ \mathrm{mL/min}$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the plateau phase (Phase 2) of the action potential in a cardiac contractile cell?

Accepted Answer

It results from the simultaneous influx of calcium ions ($$\mathrm{Ca$$^{2+}$$}) $$and efflux of potassium ions ($$\mathrm{K^+}).$$

Question 2

A patient presents with a heart rate of 120 bpm and an irregular ECG. Which of the following is the FIRST question you should ask when interpreting the ECG?

Accepted Answer

What is the heart rate?

Question 3

Which of the following is a key difference between cardiac contractile cells and skeletal muscle fibers?

Accepted Answer

Cardiac contractile cells rely on extracellular $$\mathrm{Ca$$^{2+}$$}$$ for contraction, while skeletal muscle fibers do not.

Question 4

During the mechanical events of the cardiac cycle, which event immediately follows ventricular systole?

Accepted Answer

Isovolumetric ventricular relaxation

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD)?

Accepted Answer

Regular aerobic exercise

Question 6

A patient experiences a sudden drop in blood pressure. Which of the following best describes the baroreceptor reflex response?

Accepted Answer

Increased heart rate and vasoconstriction via sympathetic activation

Question 7

Which of the following tests is NOT included in a standard Complete Blood Count (CBC)?

Accepted Answer

Blood glucose

Question 8

Which lung volume is defined as the maximum amount of air that can be exhaled after a maximal inhalation?

Accepted Answer

Vital capacity ($$\mathrm{VC})$$

Question 9

A patient with pulmonary fibrosis has stiff lungs. Which term best describes this condition?

Accepted Answer

Decreased compliance

Question 10

If a person’s tidal volume is $$500\ \mathrm{mL}$$ and their respiratory rate is $$12\ \mathrm{breaths/min}$$, what is their minute ventilation?

Accepted Answer

$$500\ \mathrm{mL} 	imes 12\ \mathrm{breaths/min} = 6000\ \mathrm{mL/min}$$

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the reflex control of ventilation in response to increased arterial $$\mathrm{CO_2$}$$?

Accepted Answer

Central chemoreceptors stimulate the respiratory centers to increase ventilation.

Question 12

Which of the following is TRUE regarding auto-rhythmic (pacemaker) cardiac cells?

Accepted Answer

They generate action potentials spontaneously due to unstable membrane potentials.

Question 13

A patient’s ECG shows no P waves and an irregularly irregular rhythm. Which cardiac abnormality is most likely present?

Accepted Answer

Atrial fibrillation

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why the refractory period in cardiac contractile cells is longer than in skeletal muscle fibers?

Accepted Answer

The plateau phase prolongs depolarization, preventing tetanus.

Question 15

Which of the following lung capacities is calculated as $$\mathrm{VC} + \mathrm{RV}$$?

Accepted Answer

Total lung capacity ($$\mathrm{TLC})$$

Question 16

Which of the following is a common misconception about the baroreceptor reflex?

Accepted Answer

It only responds to increases in blood pressure.

Question 17

A patient with anemia is likely to have which of the following CBC findings?

Accepted Answer

Decreased hematocrit

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the relationship between lung compliance and elastance?

Accepted Answer

High compliance means low elastance.

Question 19

Which of the following scenarios would most likely trigger an increase in ventilation via the reflex control pathway?

Accepted Answer

Increased arterial $$\mathrm{CO_2$}$$

Question 20

Which of the following is the correct sequence of mechanical events in the cardiac cycle?

Accepted Answer

Atrial contraction → ventricular contraction → isovolumetric relaxation → ventricular filling

Cardiovascular, Blood, and Respiratory Physiology: Exam 3 Study Guide

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