CET Cardiovascular Anatomy & Physiology

Question 1

What is the function of the atria in the heart?

Accepted Answer

They receive blood returning to the heart

Answer

The atria are the upper two chambers of the heart, acting as receiving chambers for blood returning from the body and lungs. The right atrium receives deoxygenated blood from the body, while the left atrium receives oxygenated blood from the lungs. They then pump this blood into their respective ventricles, initiating the next phase of the cardiac cycle.

Question 2

What separates the left and right sides of the heart?

Accepted Answer

The septum

Answer

The septum is a muscular wall that divides the heart into its left and right sides. This crucial structure prevents the mixing of oxygenated blood (from the left side) with deoxygenated blood (from the right side). The interventricular septum separates the ventricles, and the interatrial septum separates the atria, ensuring efficient blood circulation.

Question 3

Which valve prevents backflow of blood into the left atrium?

Accepted Answer

Mitral valve

Answer

The mitral valve, also known as the bicuspid valve, is located between the left atrium and the left ventricle. Its primary function is to prevent the backflow of oxygenated blood from the left ventricle into the left atrium during ventricular contraction (systole). Proper functioning of this valve is essential for efficient blood circulation to the body.

Question 4

What is the role of the sinoatrial (SA) node?

Accepted Answer

Initiates electrical impulses in the heart

Answer

The sinoatrial (SA) node is often referred to as the heart's natural pacemaker. Located in the right atrium, it generates electrical impulses that initiate each heartbeat. These impulses spread across the atria, causing them to contract, and then travel to the ventricles, coordinating the rhythmic pumping action of the heart.

Question 5

Which blood vessel carries oxygenated blood from the lungs to the heart?

Accepted Answer

Pulmonary vein

Answer

The pulmonary vein is unique because, unlike most veins, it carries oxygenated blood. Specifically, it transports oxygen-rich blood from the lungs back to the left atrium of the heart. This is a critical step in the systemic circulation, ensuring that oxygenated blood is ready to be pumped to the rest of the body.

(CET) Certified Echocardiography Technician Practice Test

(CET) Certified Echocardiography Technician Practice Test

CET Cardiovascular Anatomy & Physiology