Anatomy and Physiology Fundamentals Flashcards

Which layer of the heart wall is responsible for the contractile function of the heart?

Answer: Myocardium

The myocardium is the thick muscular middle layer of the heart wall that performs contraction to pump blood.

What is the primary function of the nephron in the kidney?

Answer: Blood filtration and urine formation

The nephron is the functional unit of the kidney, filtering blood and forming urine through filtration, reabsorption, and secretion.

In the context of biomedical equipment used during surgery, which nerve plexus supplies the brachial region and is a landmark for regional anesthesia?

Answer: Brachial plexus

The brachial plexus (C5–T1) innervates the upper extremity and is the target for brachial plexus nerve blocks used in upper limb surgeries.

Which of the following best describes the role of surfactant in the lungs?

Answer: Reduces surface tension to prevent alveolar collapse

Surfactant, produced by type II pneumocytes, reduces surface tension in alveoli, preventing collapse during exhalation.

A patient's ECG shows a prolonged PR interval. Which anatomical structure is most likely causing the conduction delay?

Answer: Atrioventricular (AV) node

The PR interval represents the time for electrical impulses to travel from the SA node through the AV node; a prolonged PR indicates AV node delay.

Which type of epithelium lines the urinary bladder and is capable of stretching?

Answer: Transitional epithelium (urothelium)

Transitional epithelium (urothelium) lines the urinary bladder and ureters, uniquely able to stretch as the bladder fills.

During cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), compressions are performed on the sternum. Which anatomical landmark guides correct hand placement?

Answer: Lower half of the sternum

CPR guidelines direct compressions to the lower half of the sternum to compress the heart between the sternum and vertebral column.