Question 1

Which structure is responsible for initiating the cardiac action potential and setting the normal heart rate?

Accepted Answer

SA node

Question 2

During ventricular systole, which heart valves are closed?

Accepted Answer

Atrioventricular (AV) valves

Question 3

A patient has a blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg. Which phase of the cardiac cycle does the '90' represent?

Accepted Answer

Ventricular diastole

Question 4

Which vessel carries oxygenated blood from the lungs to the heart?

Accepted Answer

Pulmonary vein

Question 5

What is the main force responsible for fluid reabsorption at the venous end of a capillary?

Accepted Answer

Blood colloid osmotic pressure

Question 6

Which layer of a blood vessel is primarily responsible for controlling vessel diameter and blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

Tunica media

Question 7

If a person experiences sympathetic stimulation, which of the following changes is most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Increased heart rate and vasoconstriction

Question 8

Which equation correctly represents cardiac output?

Accepted Answer

$$CO = HR 	imes SV$$

Question 9

A blockage in the left anterior descending artery would most directly affect which region of the heart?

Accepted Answer

Left ventricle

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the function of baroreceptors?

Accepted Answer

Detect changes in blood pressure by sensing vessel stretch

Question 11

During the cardiac cycle, which event occurs immediately after ventricular filling?

Accepted Answer

Atrial systole

Question 12

Which of the following is NOT a factor that increases blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

Decreased peripheral resistance

Question 13

Which structure prevents the AV valves from flipping backward during ventricular contraction?

Accepted Answer

Chordae tendineae

Question 14

A patient with severe dehydration will likely experience which change in blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

Decreased blood pressure due to lower blood volume

Question 15

Which of the following arteries supplies blood to the brain?

Accepted Answer

Internal carotid artery

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the flow of blood through the systemic circulation?

Accepted Answer

Left ventricle → aorta → body tissues → right atrium

Question 17

Which of the following is a defining feature of veins compared to arteries?

Accepted Answer

Valves to prevent backflow

Question 18

Which of the following is the correct sequence for the electrical pathway in the heart?

Accepted Answer

SA node → AV node → bundle of His → bundle branches → Purkinje fibers

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why veins act as blood reservoirs?

Accepted Answer

They have thin walls and can stretch easily to hold large volumes of blood

Question 20

A patient with atherosclerosis has stiff arteries. Which effect will this have on blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

Increase blood pressure due to decreased elasticity

Cardiovascular System: Heart and Blood Vessels Study Guide

Study Guide - Practice Questions