Cardiovascular System Overview

Study Notes

The cardiovascular system is responsible for transporting oxygen, electrolytes, and nutrients to tissues via the blood.
The heart, blood vessels, and blood make up the cardiovascular system, which is essential for oxygen and nutrient delivery to cells.
The heart pumps blood through the vessels, ensuring oxygen and nutrients reach tissues.
The circulatory system includes systemic circulation (throughout the body) and coronary circulation (supplying the heart muscle).
The cardiac cycle consists of diastole (relaxation and refilling with blood) and systole (contraction and blood pumping).
The cardiac conduction system involves nodes and fibers that regulate heart contractions.
Cardiac output is the amount of blood pumped by the ventricles per minute, determined by stroke volume and heart rate.
Factors like heart rate, preload, contractility, and afterload affect cardiac output.
Arterial circulation moves blood from the heart to tissues, while venous circulation returns blood to the heart.
Blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and peripheral vascular resistance are critical in maintaining blood flow and tissue perfusion.
Blood transports oxygen, nutrients, and hormones, regulates body functions, and prevents infections and blood loss.
Hemoglobin, found in red blood cells, carries oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body.
Risk factors for cardiovascular disease include hypertension, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.
Alterations in cardiovascular function can lead to decreased cardiac output, impaired tissue perfusion, and blood-related issues like anemia.
Nursing assessments of the cardiovascular system involve history taking, physical exams, and diagnostic tests.
Nursing interventions aim to maintain tissue perfusion, restore cardiac output, and promote overall cardiovascular health.
Implementation includes promoting circulation, medication administration, preventing venostasis, and performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
CPR involves mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, chest compressions, and oxygen supply to re-establish cardiac function.

Description

Explore the essential components and functions of the cardiovascular system, including the heart, blood vessels, circulation, blood pressure, and cardiac output. Learn about the importance of maintaining tissue perfusion and strategies for promoting cardiovascular health.