$$CO = 90 \times 60 = 5400$$ \text{ mL/min} = 5.4 \text{ L/min}$

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

To transport oxygen, nutrients, cell wastes, and hormones to and from cells

Question 2

Which layer of the heart wall is responsible for the contraction of the heart?

Accepted Answer

Myocardium

Question 3

A patient is diagnosed with a blockage in the left anterior interventricular artery. Which part of the heart's own circulation is affected?

Accepted Answer

Coronary arteries

Question 4

During which phase of the cardiac cycle are the atrioventricular (AV) valves open and the semilunar valves closed?

Accepted Answer

Atrial diastole (ventricular filling)

Question 5

Which of the following equations correctly represents cardiac output ($$CO$$)?

Accepted Answer

$$CO = HR 	imes SV$$

Question 6

A patient presents with a heart rate of 90 beats per minute and a stroke volume of 60 mL. What is their cardiac output ($$CO) in $$liters per minute?

Accepted Answer

$$CO = 90 	imes 60 = 5400$$ 	ext{ mL/min} = 5.4 	ext{ L/min}$

Question 7

Which of the following statements about the pulmonary and systemic circuits is correct?

Accepted Answer

The right side of the heart pumps blood to the pulmonary circuit.

Question 8

Which vessel type has the thickest tunica media and why?

Accepted Answer

Arteries, to withstand and regulate high pressure from the heart

Question 9

Which of the following best explains why veins have valves, but arteries do not?

Accepted Answer

Valves in veins prevent backflow of blood due to low pressure

Question 10

A patient has a blood pressure reading of 120/80 mm Hg. What does the 120 mm Hg represent?

Accepted Answer

Systolic pressure

Question 11

Which of the following would most likely cause an increase in peripheral resistance and thus increase blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

Vasoconstriction

Question 12

Which hormone is released by the adrenal medulla and increases both heart rate and blood pressure during the 'fight-or-flight' response?

Accepted Answer

Epinephrine

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the role of the hepatic portal vein?

Accepted Answer

It carries nutrient-rich blood from the digestive organs to the liver for processing

Question 14

Which fetal structure allows blood to bypass the lungs by connecting the pulmonary trunk and the aorta?

Accepted Answer

Ductus arteriosus

Question 15

Which of the following is a direct effect of increased venous return on stroke volume, according to Starling’s law of the heart?

Accepted Answer

Increased preload and increased stroke volume

Question 16

Which of the following best explains why capillaries are only one cell layer thick?

Accepted Answer

To allow for efficient exchange of gases and nutrients

Question 17

A patient with a slow heart rate (bradycardia) would have which of the following heart rates?

Accepted Answer

55 beats per minute

Question 18

Which of the following is the correct sequence of structures for the intrinsic conduction system of the heart?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the effect of cold temperature on blood vessels?

Accepted Answer

Vasoconstriction, leading to increased blood pressure

Question 20

Which of the following is a common age-related change in the cardiovascular system?

Accepted Answer

Weakening of venous valves and development of varicose veins

Study Notes: The Cardiovascular System (Chapter 11)

Study Guide - Practice Questions