Anatomy & Physiology of the Circulatory System Flashcards

Which vein is most commonly preferred as the first choice for routine venipuncture in the antecubital area?

Answer: Median cubital vein

The median cubital vein is the preferred first choice for venipuncture because it is large, well-anchored, and less likely to roll or bruise.

Which chamber of the heart pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs via the pulmonary artery?

Answer: Right ventricle

The right ventricle pumps deoxygenated blood through the pulmonary artery to the lungs for oxygenation.

What is the primary function of valves found in veins?

Answer: Prevent backflow of blood

Venous valves prevent the backflow of blood, helping it return to the heart against gravity.

Which layer of a blood vessel wall contains smooth muscle cells and is responsible for vasoconstriction and vasodilation?

Answer: Tunica media

The tunica media is the middle layer of blood vessels, composed of smooth muscle that controls vessel diameter through contraction and relaxation.

What is the antecubital fossa?

Answer: The triangular area on the inner aspect of the elbow

The antecubital fossa is the triangular depression located on the anterior (inner) aspect of the elbow, which is the primary site for venipuncture.

Which type of blood vessel is responsible for the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between blood and tissues?

Answer: Capillaries

Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels and the site of gas, nutrient, and waste exchange between blood and surrounding tissues.

The largest artery in the human body is the:

Answer: Aorta

The aorta is the largest artery in the body, arising directly from the left ventricle and distributing oxygenated blood to the systemic circulation.