CET Cardiovascular Anatomy & Physiology 4

Question 1

Which structure forms the posterior wall of the left atrium and is a common site for thrombus formation in atrial fibrillation?

Accepted Answer

Left atrial appendage

Answer

The left atrial appendage (LAA) has a narrow neck and trabeculated interior, creating stasis-prone conditions for thrombus formation.

Question 2

Afterload is most accurately defined as:

Accepted Answer

The pressure or wall stress the ventricle must overcome during ejection

Answer

Afterload is the ventricular wall stress (or effective arterial resistance) against which the ventricle must contract to eject blood.

Question 3

Which valve prevents backflow of blood from the pulmonary artery into the right ventricle?

Accepted Answer

Pulmonic valve

Answer

The pulmonic (pulmonary) valve is a semilunar valve that closes during diastole to prevent regurgitation from the pulmonary artery into the right ventricle.

Question 4

The normal right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) in a healthy adult at rest is approximately:

Accepted Answer

15–30 mmHg

Answer

Normal RVSP is approximately 15–30 mmHg, reflecting the low-resistance pulmonary circulation.

Question 5

Which echocardiographic measurement is used as a surrogate for right atrial pressure and is assessed by looking at the inferior vena cava?

Accepted Answer

IVC diameter and collapsibility with inspiration

Answer

IVC diameter and its respiratory collapsibility index are used to estimate right atrial pressure per ASE guidelines.

(CET) Certified Echocardiography Technician Practice Test

(CET) Certified Echocardiography Technician Practice Test

CET Cardiovascular Anatomy & Physiology 4