What does systole refer to in cardiac function?

Prepare for the NAVTA Approved Veterinary Assistant Test with study flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and detailed explanations to help you ace the exam!

Systole specifically refers to the phase of the cardiac cycle during which the heart muscle contracts. During this contraction, blood is pumped out of the heart chambers and into the arteries, effectively circulating blood throughout the body. This contraction is crucial for maintaining blood pressure and ensuring that oxygenated blood reaches vital organs and tissues.

Understanding this term is essential in veterinary medicine as it plays a key role in cardiovascular health assessments, diagnosis of heart conditions, and treatment planning. The contraction phase is counterbalanced by diastole, which is the relaxation phase where the heart chambers fill with blood, underscoring the significance of both phases in overall heart function.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy