Circulatory System Functions

Study Notes

The Circulatory System

The circulatory system is composed of the heart, blood, and blood vessels.
It transports blood to the lungs and body, performing the following functions:
- Dropping off carbon dioxide and picking up oxygen.
- Transporting oxygen and nutrients to all parts of the body.
Additionally, it helps regulate body temperature and maintain the body's fluid balance.

Circulatory System Conditions

Severe bleeding, shock, stroke, and heart conditions can affect respiration and reduce the ability to deliver oxygen.
A heart attack can cause the heart to stop (cardiac arrest).
In the event of cardiac arrest, brain damage occurs within 4-6 minutes.
If not addressed, brain damage becomes irreversible within 8-10 minutes.

Heart Function

A normal heartbeat is essential for the heart's effectiveness in pumping.
Dysrhythmias, or abnormal heartbeats, can reduce the heart's pumping effectiveness.

Causes of Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Hypovolemia is one of the 5 H's that can cause sudden cardiac arrest.
Hypoxia is another cause of sudden cardiac arrest, classified as one of the 5 H's.
Electrolyte imbalance, including hyperkalemia and hypokalemia, can also lead to sudden cardiac arrest, falling under the category of 5 H's.
Hypothermia is a cause of sudden cardiac arrest, classified as one of the 5 H's.
Hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia are both causes of sudden cardiac arrest, classified as one of the 5 H's.
Acidosis, or hydrogen ion, is another potential cause of sudden cardiac arrest, also classified as one of the 5 H's.
Toxins, such as tablets, drugs, and medication, are a cause of sudden cardiac arrest, falling under the category of T's.
Cardiac tamponade is a cause of sudden cardiac arrest, classified as one of the T's.
Tension pneumothorax can lead to sudden cardiac arrest, falling under the category of T's.
Myocardial infarction, or thrombosis, is a cause of sudden cardiac arrest, classified as one of the T's.
Pulmonary embolism, or thromboembolism, is a cause of sudden cardiac arrest, falling under the category of T's.

Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

CPR is a combination of rescue breathing and chest compressions performed by a medical team.
CPR is used when there is no breathing and pulse.
CPR provides oxygen to the brain until advanced cardiovascular life support (ACLS) arrives.
CPR is used to try and revive heart and lung functioning.

Applicable Heart Rhythms

Non-shockable rhythms include normal sinus rhythm, sinus bradycardia, sinus tachycardia, pulseless electrical activity, ventricular tachycardia, supraventricular tachycardia, and asystole.
Shockable rhythms include ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia.

Hand Positioning and Compressions

The heel of the palm should be placed in the center of the chest, with the middle finger in line with the nipple.
The lower half of the breastbone is the correct location for chest compressions.
Hands should be interlaced, with one hand on top of the other.
Proper hand position and placement are essential for chest compressions.
30 chest compressions should be performed, with a depth of 5 cm.
Compressions should be counted out loud, at a rate of 1, 2, 3, and so on.

Description

This quiz covers the functions of the circulatory system, including transportation of oxygen and nutrients, regulation of body temperature, and maintaining fluid balance. It also touches on conditions that affect the circulatory system.