Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of precapillary sphincters in the cardiovascular system?

Accepted Answer

They control the flow of blood from arterioles into capillaries, allowing fine-tuning of local blood supply.

Question 2

A patient presents with sudden chest pain and shortness of breath. Imaging reveals a blockage in a pulmonary artery. Which condition is most likely responsible?

Accepted Answer

Pulmonary embolism

Question 3

Which layer of the heart wall is responsible for the contraction that pumps blood and allows electrical signals to flow directly from cell to cell?

Accepted Answer

Myocardium

Question 4

During ventricular systole, which valves are open and which are closed?

Accepted Answer

AV valves are closed; semilunar valves are open.

Question 5

Which equation correctly represents cardiac output ($$CO) in $$terms of heart rate ($$HR) $$and stroke volume ($$SV$$)?

Accepted Answer

$$CO = HR 	imes SV$$

Question 6

A patient’s blood pressure is measured at 145/95 mm Hg. Which term best describes this condition, and what are the potential risks?

Accepted Answer

Hypertension; risk of cardiovascular disease, vessel hardening, and heart strain.

Question 7

Which of the following mechanisms assists in the return of blood to the heart through veins?

Accepted Answer

One-way valves, skeletal muscle contraction, and pressure changes from breathing

Question 8

Which hormone is released by the adrenal medulla and increases heart rate and force of contraction during stress?

Accepted Answer

Epinephrine

Question 9

A patient with atherosclerosis is at increased risk for which of the following conditions due to cholesterol buildup in arteries?

Accepted Answer

Stroke, heart attack, and aneurism

Question 10

Which of the following best explains the negative feedback mechanism by which baroreceptors regulate arterial blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

Baroreceptors detect high blood pressure, send signals to the brain, which lowers heart rate and decreases vascular resistance.

Question 11

Which of the following is a primary function of the lymphatic system in relation to the cardiovascular system?

Accepted Answer

It returns excess interstitial fluid to the circulatory system and transports substances too large for capillaries.

Question 12

A patient is diagnosed with congestive heart failure. Which of the following symptoms is most likely to occur due to fluid backup in interstitial spaces?

Accepted Answer

Swollen ankles, legs, and neck veins

Question 13

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

Accepted Answer

The systemic circuit delivers oxygenated blood to tissues and returns deoxygenated blood to the heart.

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the role of coronary arteries?

Accepted Answer

They supply oxygenated blood to the myocardium.

Question 15

Which of the following is the correct sequence of electrical conduction in the heart?

Accepted Answer

SA node → AV node → AV bundle → Purkinje fibers

Question 16

A patient’s ECG shows an abnormal QRS complex. What does this indicate about the heart’s electrical activity?

Accepted Answer

There is abnormal spread of impulse down the septum and around the ventricles.

Question 17

Which of the following equations correctly represents mean arterial pressure ($$MAP) in $$terms of systolic ($$SP) $$and diastolic ($$DP) $$pressures?

Accepted Answer

$$MAP = \frac{SP + 2DP}{3}$$

Question 18

Which of the following is a recommended strategy to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease?

Accepted Answer

Engage in regular moderate exercise and monitor blood pressure.

Question 19

A patient experiences dizziness after standing up quickly. Which condition is most likely responsible, and what is the physiological explanation?

Accepted Answer

Hypotension; sudden drop in blood pressure reduces blood flow to the brain.

The Cardiovascular System: Structure, Function, and Disorders

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards