ACSM-EP Cardiovascular Physiology 2

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the Frank-Starling mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Greater ventricular end-diastolic volume results in a stronger contraction

Answer

The Frank-Starling mechanism states that as ventricular filling (preload) increases, the force of contraction increases due to greater actin-myosin cross-bridge formation.

Question 2

During maximal aerobic exercise, which factor contributes MOST to the increase in cardiac output in trained individuals?

Accepted Answer

Increased stroke volume due to enhanced ventricular filling and ejection

Answer

Trained individuals achieve higher cardiac output primarily through a larger stroke volume (augmented preload via plasma volume expansion and enhanced ejection fraction) rather than heart rate alone.

Question 3

What is the primary determinant of diastolic blood pressure?

Accepted Answer

Total peripheral resistance

Answer

Diastolic blood pressure is primarily determined by total peripheral resistance, which reflects the degree of vasoconstriction in arterioles.

Question 4

A 45-year-old client has a resting cardiac output of 5 L/min and a heart rate of 70 bpm. What is the stroke volume?

Accepted Answer

71 mL

Answer

Stroke volume = Cardiac output / Heart rate = 5000 mL / 70 bpm ≈ 71 mL.

Question 5

Which physiological change explains the redistribution of blood flow to active muscles during exercise?

Accepted Answer

Local metabolic vasodilation in active muscles with vasoconstriction in non-essential beds

Answer

Local metabolites (CO₂, lactate, adenosine, K⁺) cause vasodilation in active muscles, while sympathetic vasoconstriction reduces flow to splanchnic and renal beds.

ACSM Practice Test

ACSM Practice Test

ACSM-EP Cardiovascular Physiology 2