Asked by Brandy Laurier on Apr 29, 2024
Verified
The nurse is reviewing venous blood flow patterns. Which of these statements best describes the mechanism(s) by which venous blood returns to the heart?
A) Intraluminal valves ensure unidirectional flow toward the heart.
B) Contracting skeletal muscles milk blood distally toward the veins.
C) High-pressure system of the heart helps facilitate venous return.
D) Increased thoracic pressure and decreased abdominal pressure facilitate venous return to the heart.
Intraluminal Valves
Structures within the lumens of lymphatic vessels that allow fluid to flow in one direction.
Contracting Skeletal Muscles
The process where skeletal muscles shorten and generate tension in response to signals from the nervous system, facilitating movement.
Thoracic Pressure
The pressure within the chest cavity, influencing respiratory and cardiovascular functions.
- Understand the mechanisms of venous blood return and the factors affecting it.
Verified Answer
DS
Danial SaleemMay 01, 2024
Final Answer :
A
Explanation :
Blood moves through the veins by (1) contracting skeletal muscles that milk the blood proximally back toward the heart; (2) pressure gradients caused by breathing, during which inspiration makes the thoracic pressure decrease and the abdominal pressure increase; and (3) the intraluminal valves, which ensure unidirectional flow toward the heart.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the mechanisms of venous blood return and the factors affecting it.