NTA Cardiovascular Anatomy and Physiology

Question 1

Which structure initiates the normal electrical impulse of the heart?

Accepted Answer

Sinoatrial (SA) node

Answer

The SA node, located in the right atrium, is the heart's primary pacemaker and initiates the normal electrical impulse.

Question 2

What is the normal intrinsic rate of the AV node when it acts as a secondary pacemaker?

Accepted Answer

40–60 bpm

Answer

The AV node has an intrinsic rate of 40–60 bpm, slower than the SA node, which normally suppresses it.

Question 3

Which layer of the heart wall is responsible for the pumping action?

Accepted Answer

Myocardium

Answer

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

Question 4

Deoxygenated blood from the body returns to which heart chamber first?

Accepted Answer

Right atrium

Answer

Systemic venous blood returns via the superior and inferior vena cava into the right atrium.

Question 5

What is the primary function of the tricuspid valve?

Accepted Answer

Prevents backflow from the right ventricle into the right atrium

Answer

The tricuspid valve sits between the right atrium and right ventricle, preventing regurgitation during ventricular contraction.

NTA - National Telemetry Association Practice Test