Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of capillaries in the cardiovascular system?

Accepted Answer

They are the primary site for exchange of gases, nutrients, and wastes between blood and tissues.

Question 2

A patient presents with swelling in the legs and feet (peripheral edema). Which of the following is a likely cause based on capillary dynamics?

Accepted Answer

Increased capillary hydrostatic pressure

Question 3

Which equation correctly represents the relationship between blood pressure, cardiac output, and peripheral resistance?

Accepted Answer

$P = CO 	imes PR$

Question 4

Atherosclerosis is most likely to develop in which type of blood vessel and why?

Accepted Answer

Large and medium-sized muscular arteries due to high pressure and turbulent flow at branching points.

Question 5

Which of the following would most likely increase blood pressure in the short term?

Accepted Answer

Vasoconstriction caused by norepinephrine

Question 6

Calculate the mean arterial pressure (MAP) for a patient with a systolic blood pressure (SBP) of 120 mm Hg and a diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of 80 mm Hg using the formula $MAP = DBP + \frac{SBP - DBP}{3}$.

Accepted Answer

$MAP = 80 + \frac{120 - 80}{3} = 93.3$ mm Hg

Question 7

Which hormone would most likely be elevated in a patient with chronic hypertension due to increased blood volume?

Accepted Answer

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP)

Question 8

A patient is experiencing vasovagal syncope after a traumatic event. Which of the following best explains the physiological changes leading to fainting?

Accepted Answer

Increased parasympathetic output and decreased sympathetic tone cause a dramatic fall in blood pressure.

Question 9

Which of the following changes would most effectively decrease peripheral resistance and lower blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

Vasodilation of arterioles

Question 10

Which type of capillary is most likely to be found in the liver and why?

Accepted Answer

Sinusoidal capillaries, because they allow large substances such as cells to cross the capillary walls.

Question 11

A patient with severe blood loss is at risk for which type of shock, and what is the primary physiological problem?

Accepted Answer

Hypovolemic shock; reduced blood volume leads to insufficient blood pressure to deliver oxygen to tissues.

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why blood flow velocity decreases as blood moves from arteries to capillaries?

Accepted Answer

The total cross-sectional area increases, causing blood to spread out and flow more slowly.

Question 13

Which of the following is a direct effect of angiotensin II on blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

It causes vasoconstriction, increasing peripheral resistance and blood pressure.

Question 14

Which of the following is a risk factor for developing a cerebrovascular accident (CVA)?

Accepted Answer

Hypertension

Question 15

Which of the following mechanisms assists venous return to the heart, especially during exercise?

Accepted Answer

Skeletal muscle pump

Question 16

A patient with chronic hypertension is prescribed a medication that decreases heart rate. Which variable is directly affected to lower blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

Cardiac output

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the effect of increased blood viscosity on blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

It increases peripheral resistance, leading to higher blood pressure.

Question 18

Which of the following is a function of the great saphenous vein in bypass grafting procedures?

Accepted Answer

It is used to restore blood flow by bypassing blocked arteries because it is easily accessible and superficial.

Question 19

Which of the following would most likely result from a failure of venous valves in the lower limbs?

Accepted Answer

Varicose veins due to blood pooling and vein stretching

Chapter 18: The Cardiovascular System II – Blood Vessels

Study Guide - Practice Questions

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