ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Quiz Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Starling's law of the heart:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Starling’s law (C) states that increased venous return (preload) stretches the heart, increasing stroke volume and cardiac output. A is false (it operates but may fail), B is false (it applies), and D is sympathetic.
Question 2 of 5
Which of the following terms identifies the anatomical region found between the lungs that extends from the sternum to the vertebral column and from the first rib to the diaphragm?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The mediastinum (D) is the central thoracic region between the lungs, from sternum to spine and first rib to diaphragm, housing the heart. Epicardium (A) is the heart’s outer layer, abdominal cavity (B) is below the diaphragm, and pericardium (C) is the heart’s sac.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following correctly lists the sequence of structures that a cardiac action potential follows in order to excite normal contraction of the heart?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The sequence is SA node (initiates), AV node (delays), Bundle of His, Purkinje fibers (D), ensuring atrial then ventricular contraction. Other options are out of order.
Question 4 of 5
If the AV node were forced to assume pacemaker activity, what would be the resulting pulse rate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The AV node’s intrinsic rate is 40-60 bpm (D), slower than the SA node’s 60-100 bpm.
Question 5 of 5
Heart chamber that receives blood that has just passed through the right atrioventricular valve
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The right ventricle (B) receives blood from the right atrium via the tricuspid valve (right AV). Atria (A, C) send blood, left ventricle (D) is systemic.