After reading this chapter, you should be able to:

1. Describe the size, shape, and location of the heart.

2. Give the location and function of the coronary arteries.

3. Describe the chambers of the heart.

4. Name the valves of the heart and state their location and function.

5. List the components of the heart wall and describe the structure and function of each.

6. Describe the flow of blood through the heart and name each of the chambers and structures through which the blood passes.

7. Describe the changes that occur in membrane permeability during each phase of an action potential in cardiac muscle. Compare the permeability changes to those in cardiac muscle during an action potential.

8. Explain the structure and function of the conduction system of the heart.

9. Define each wave of the electrocardiogram and relate each of them to contractions of the heart.

10. Describe the cardiac cycle and the relationship between contraction of each of the chambers, the pressure in each of the chambers, the phases of the electrocardiogram, and the heart sounds.

11. Describe intrinsic and extrinsic regulation of the heart.

12. Give the conditions for which the major heart medications and treatments are administered.