Vascular Anatomy & Physiology Flashcards

Which layer of a blood vessel contains smooth muscle and elastic tissue responsible for vasoconstriction and vasodilation?

Answer: Tunica media

The tunica media is the middle layer containing smooth muscle and elastic fibers that regulate vessel diameter.

The cephalic vein runs along which aspect of the forearm and upper arm?

Answer: Lateral

The cephalic vein travels along the lateral (radial) aspect of the forearm and upper arm before entering the axillary vein.

What is the primary function of venous valves?

Answer: Prevent retrograde blood flow

Venous valves are bicuspid structures that prevent retrograde (backward) flow of blood, aiding venous return against gravity.

Which vessel carries deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the lungs?

Answer: Pulmonary artery

The pulmonary artery is unique among arteries in carrying deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the pulmonary capillary bed.

The basilic vein joins which vessel to form the axillary vein?

Answer: Brachial vein

The basilic vein merges with the brachial vein at the lower border of the teres major muscle to form the axillary vein.

Which anatomical landmark marks the junction of the superior vena cava and the right atrium, the preferred PICC tip location?

Answer: Cavoatrial junction

The cavoatrial junction (CAJ) is the optimal PICC tip placement site, providing high blood flow to dilute infusates.

Arteriovenous anastomoses (AVAs) primarily serve which physiological function?

Answer: Thermoregulation by bypassing capillary beds

AVAs are direct connections between arterioles and venules that bypass capillaries, primarily functioning in thermoregulation by controlling heat dissipation.