Cardiology – An Introduction to the Anatomy and Physiology of the Heart
This tutorial explains and illustrates the structure and function of the adult heart, including the heartbeat and pulse.
This tutorial is the first in a series on cardiology.
$25
2.5 CPD hours
Nursing and Midwifery CPD Hours
2.5 CPD hours
2.5 CNA points
Overview
The human heart is one of the most fascinating organs of the human body. An understanding of the function of a healthy heart, and its anatomy and physiology, provide the building blocks for a broader understanding of how the human body works. This tutorial explains and illustrates the structure and function of the adult heart, including the heartbeat and pulse. It also describes the vital part it plays in the circulation of the blood, ensuring that oxygenated blood is pumped through the entire body and that deoxygenated blood is returned to the lungs to be reoxygenated.
This tutorial is the first in a series on cardiology. We recommend that this tutorial is completed before you start the next in this series: Cardiology – The Cardiac Conduction System and Electrocardiograms.
About the Authors
Robert Wilson BN, Grad Cert CritCare.
Robert has been working in critical care nursing for ten years and is a senior nurse in cardiothoracic intensive care in a major Australian tertiary hospital.
Louise Roberts BA (Law)
Louise is a professional health care writer and editor. Her experience includes being the chief sub-editor of the Nursing Standard, production editor of the Nursing Times, editing and writing for the World Wide Wounds website and various European Wound Management Association publications.
Learning Objectives
- Be able to describe the main functions of the heart.
- Be able to identify the main anatomical features of the heart.
- Understand how the heart pumps blood through the cardiovascular system.
- Be familiar with the systemic circuit and its role in the circulation of the blood.
- Be familiar with the pulmonary circuit and its role in the circulation of the blood.