A Condition in Which the Ventricles Are Unable to Pump

question 88

Multiple Choice

A condition in which the ventricles are unable to pump blood efficiently because of rapid, random contraction of cardiac muscle fibers is called

• A) atrial fibrillation.
• B) ventricular fibrillation.
• C) pulmonary arterial hypertension.
• D) congestive heart failure.

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Definitions:

Brainstem

The oldest part and central core of the brain, beginning where the spinal cord swells as it enters the skull; the brainstem is responsible for automatic survival functions.

Medulla

The base of the brainstem; controls heartbeat and breathing.

Visual Cortex

The part of the cerebral cortex involved in processing visual information, located in the occipital lobe of the brain.

Thalamus

The brain’s sensory switchboard, located on top of the brainstem; it directs messages to the sensory receiving areas in the cortex and transmits replies to the cerebellum and medulla.