SM 135 Bradycardia Flashcards
Describe the location of the SA Node?
SA Node is found in the sulcus terminalis, at the junction of the SVC + R. Atrium, and is relatively epicardial
What major anatomical landmark is near the SA Node?
The junction of the SVC and R. Atrium
Does the SA Node show up on EKG and why?
SA Node does not show up on EKG because it is a very small group of cells
What is the function of the SA Node?
The SA Node is the natural pacemaker of the heart and sets the heart rate
What is a sinus rhythm?
A normal heart rate set by the SA Node
What outflow(s) of the nervous system control the SA Node?
The SA Node and the heart rate are manipulated by Sympathetic Tone
How is the R. Atrium connected to the L. Atrium?
Via Bachmann’s Bundle
How is the SA Node connected to the AV Node?
Internodal tracts
What outflow(s) of the nervous system control the AV Node?
Both Sympathetic and Parasympathetic (Vagal) Tone control the AV Node
Does the AV Node show up on EKG and why?
The AV Node does not show up on EKG because it’s a small group of cells
Where is the AV Node found?
At the junction of the R. Atrium and R. Ventricle
How does conduction change at the AV Node?
Conduction is delayed at the AV Node to allow the Atria to contract and the Ventricles to fill
What are the components of the His-Purkinje system?
Bundle of His, R + L Bundle Branches, Purkinje Fibers
Describe conduction in the His-P system?
“Highway” = rapidly conducting
How does the Left Bundle Branch compare to the Right Bundle Branch?
Both are part of the His-P system, but the Left Bundle Branch is much larger and more branched than the Right Bundle Branch
When does the SA Node depolarize?
Before the P wave - not seen on EKG
When do the Atrial Myocardium and Internodal tracts depolarize?
During the P wave
When does the AV Node depolarize?
During the PR interval, which represents a pause between Atrial and Ventricular contraction; before the His-P system depolarizes
When does the His-P System depolarize?
During the PR interval; after the AV Node
When does the Ventricular Myocardium depolarize?
During the QRS complex
When does the Ventricular Myocardium repolarize?
During the T wave