$$CO = 90 \times 70 = 6300 mL/$$min

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the pericardial fluid found in the pericardial cavity?

Accepted Answer

It reduces friction between the heart and surrounding structures during heartbeats.

Question 2

A patient is diagnosed with a faulty tricuspid valve. Which of the following is the most likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

Backflow of blood from the right ventricle to the right atrium during ventricular contraction.

Question 3

Which sequence correctly traces the path of blood through the heart, starting from the vena cava?

Accepted Answer

Right atrium → Tricuspid valve → Right ventricle → Pulmonary semilunar valve → Pulmonary trunk

Question 4

Which of the following statements about the intrinsic conduction system of the heart is correct?

Accepted Answer

The SA node acts as the pacemaker, initiating each heartbeat.

Question 5

A patient has a heart rate of 90 beats per minute and a stroke volume of 70 mL. What is their cardiac output ($$CO$$)?

$$CO = HR 	imes SV$$

Accepted Answer

$$CO = 90 	imes 70 = 6300 mL/$$min

Question 6

Which of the following best explains why arteries have a thicker tunica media than veins?

Accepted Answer

Arteries must withstand higher pressure generated by the heart's contractions.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

Mid-to-late diastole

Question 8

Which of the following would most likely cause an increase in blood pressure according to the equation $$BP = CO 	imes PR$$?

Accepted Answer

Increased cardiac output and increased peripheral resistance

Question 9

A patient is experiencing tachycardia. Which of the following best describes their condition?

Accepted Answer

A heart rate greater than 100 beats per minute

Question 10

Which of the following is a direct effect of the sympathetic nervous system on the cardiovascular system?

Accepted Answer

Vasoconstriction, leading to increased blood pressure

Question 11

Which vessel carries oxygen-rich blood from the lungs to the heart?

Accepted Answer

Pulmonary vein

Question 12

A patient with varicose veins is most likely to have which underlying problem?

Accepted Answer

Incompetent valves in the veins

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the role of precapillary sphincters in capillary beds?

Accepted Answer

They regulate blood flow into true capillaries.

Question 14

Which of the following is a likely result of a damaged AV node?

Accepted Answer

The ventricles contract at their own, slower rate, independent of the SA node.

Question 15

Which of the following is a correct pairing of heart valve and its location?

Accepted Answer

Mitral (bicuspid) valve – between left atrium and left ventricle

Question 16

Which of the following best explains why blood pressure is lowest in the veins?

Accepted Answer

Blood pressure decreases as distance from the heart increases due to friction and resistance.

Question 17

A patient is found to have a blood pressure of 150/95 mm Hg. Which term best describes this condition?

Accepted Answer

Hypertension

Question 18

Which of the following is a developmental aspect of the cardiovascular system?

Accepted Answer

The heart becomes a four-chambered organ by the end of 7 weeks of embryonic development.

Question 19

Which of the following lifestyle modifications is most likely to help reverse atherosclerosis and prolong life?

Accepted Answer

Decreasing consumption of fats, cholesterol, and salt; stopping smoking; and regular aerobic exercise

The Cardiovascular System: Structure, Function, and Regulation

Study Guide - Practice Questions