Cardiology Flashcard

Front

Which surface of the heart is located inferiorly?

Back

Inferior surface

Answer explanation

The inferior surface of the heart, also known as the diaphragmatic surface, is located at the bottom and faces downward. It is distinct from the anterior, septal, and lateral surfaces, making it the correct answer.

Front

Which valve is responsible for preventing backflow into the left atrium?

Back

Mitral/Bicuspid

Answer explanation

The mitral valve prevents backflow into the left atrium by closing when the left ventricle contracts. The tricuspid valve serves a similar function on the right side, but the question specifically asks about the left atrium.

Front

What is the function of the RCA in the heart?

Back

Supplies blood to the right atrium

Answer explanation

The RCA (Right Coronary Artery) primarily supplies blood to the right atrium, which is crucial for maintaining proper heart function. It does not supply the left atrium or left ventricle.

Front

Which coronary artery is known as the "widow maker"?

Back

LAD

Answer explanation

The LAD (Left Anterior Descending) artery is often referred to as the "widow maker" because a blockage here can lead to severe heart damage or sudden death, affecting a large area of the heart muscle.

Front

What is the role of papillary muscles in the heart?

Back

Prevent valve prolapse

Answer explanation

Papillary muscles anchor the heart valves via chordae tendineae, preventing valve prolapse during ventricular contraction. This ensures proper blood flow and prevents backflow, making 'prevent valve prolapse' the correct answer.

Front

Which layer of the heart muscle is the outermost? Options: Endocardium, Myocardium, Epicardium, Pericardium

Back

Pericardium

Answer explanation

The pericardium is the outermost layer surrounding the heart. It provides protection and anchors the heart within the chest cavity, while the endocardium and myocardium are inner layers of the heart muscle.

Front

What is inotropy related to in cardiac function?

Back

Force of contraction

Answer explanation

Inotropy refers to the force of contraction of the heart muscle. It directly affects how strongly the heart pumps blood, making 'Force of contraction' the correct answer, while heart rate, rhythm, and electrical conduction relate to other aspects of cardiac function.

Front

Which node has the highest intrinsic firing rate? Options: SA node, AV node, Bundle of His, Purkinje Fibers

Back

SA node

Answer explanation

The SA node has the highest intrinsic firing rate among cardiac nodes, typically around 60-100 beats per minute, making it the primary pacemaker of the heart, while the other nodes have lower rates.

Front

What does the P wave represent in an ECG?

Back

Atrial depolarization

Answer explanation

The P wave in an ECG represents atrial depolarization, which is the electrical activity that triggers the contraction of the atria. This is crucial for initiating the heart's pumping cycle.

Front

Which chemical mediator is associated with the parasympathetic nervous system?

Back

Acetylcholine

Answer explanation

Acetylcholine is the primary neurotransmitter of the parasympathetic nervous system, facilitating rest-and-digest functions. In contrast, norepinephrine is associated with the sympathetic nervous system.