Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 39m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 8m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 28m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System3h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

18. The Heart

Electrical Conduction System of the Heart

Anatomy & Physiology

18. The Heart

Electrical Conduction System of the Heart

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Multiple Choice

The role of the atrioventricular node (AV node) is to __________.

initiate a sinus rhythm

slow down impulses so that the atria can contract to fill the adjacent ventricles with blood

initiate ventricular depolarization

conduct impulses to the sinoatrial node (SA node)

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the location and function of the atrioventricular node (AV node) in the heart's conduction system. The AV node is situated between the atria and ventricles and plays a crucial role in coordinating the timing of heart contractions.

Recognize that the primary function of the AV node is to delay the electrical impulses received from the sinoatrial node (SA node). This delay is essential for allowing the atria to contract and fill the ventricles with blood before the ventricles contract.

Differentiate between the roles of the SA node and the AV node. The SA node is responsible for initiating the sinus rhythm, which is the natural pacemaker activity of the heart, while the AV node modulates the timing of these impulses.

Consider the options provided in the problem. The correct function of the AV node is to slow down impulses so that the atria can contract to fill the adjacent ventricles with blood, ensuring efficient blood flow and cardiac function.

Reflect on the importance of the AV node's role in preventing the ventricles from contracting prematurely, which would lead to inefficient blood circulation and potential cardiac complications.