Anatomy and Physiology Basics Flashcards

A patient is connected to an ECG monitor. The waveform displayed represents the electrical activity of which organ system?

Answer: Cardiovascular system

The electrocardiograph (ECG or EKG) is specifically designed to measure and record the electrical signals generated by the heart, which is the central organ of the cardiovascular system. These signals correspond to the depolarization and repolarization of the heart muscle during the cardiac cycle.

When troubleshooting a pulse oximeter that is giving an erratic SpO2 reading, the CBET should understand that the device's measurement principle is based on the absorption of light by what substance in the blood?

Answer: Hemoglobin

Pulse oximeters work by passing red and infrared light through a capillary bed and measuring the differential absorption. The amount of light absorbed is dependent on the oxygenation level of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.

Which of the following correctly traces the primary path of electrical conduction in the heart, which is fundamental to understanding ECG arrhythmias?

Answer: SA Node -> AV Node -> Bundle of His -> Purkinje Fibers

The normal electrical impulse in the heart originates in the Sinoatrial (SA) node, travels to the Atrioventricular (AV) node, then moves down the Bundle of His, and finally spreads through the ventricles via the Purkinje fibers, causing contraction. Understanding this pathway is crucial for interpreting ECGs.

A ventilator is a life-support device that assists with the primary physiological function of which organ system?

Answer: Respiratory system

Ventilators are mechanical breathing devices that support the respiratory system. Their main function is to move breathable air into and out of the lungs, assisting patients who are physically unable to breathe or are breathing insufficiently.

A biomedical technician is servicing a capnography monitor. This device measures the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in a patient's exhaled breath, which provides critical information about:

Answer: Ventilation and metabolic status

Capnography directly measures end-tidal CO2 (EtCO2), which reflects the adequacy of ventilation (air movement in the lungs) and the body's metabolic state. It is a critical parameter for monitoring patients under anesthesia or in intensive care.

The functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering waste products from the blood and producing urine is the:

Answer: Nephron

The nephron is the microscopic structural and functional unit of the kidney. Its primary function is to regulate the concentration of water and soluble substances like sodium salts by filtering the blood, reabsorbing what is needed, and excreting the rest as urine. This is relevant for understanding the principles behind dialysis equipment.