1. Circulatory (Cardiovascular) System
Unit 40
Circulatory (Cardiovascular) System

2. Objectives Spell and define terms.
Review the location and functions of the organs of the circulatory system.
Describe some common disorders of the circulatory system.

3. Objectives
Describe nursing assistant actions related to care of patients with disorders of the circulatory system.
List five specific diagnostic tests for disorders of the circulatory system.

4. Introduction
The circulatory system may be thought of as a transportation system.
It takes nourishment and oxygen to the cells and carries away waste products.
The closed system is kept in motion by the force of the heartbeat.

5. Introduction
Diseases that attack any part of this system interfere with overall body function.
Long-standing diseases of the cardiovascular system eventually affect the pulmonary system as well.

6. Structure and Function
The organs of the cardiovascular system include:
Heart
Blood vessels
Lymphatic vessels
Lymph nodes
Spleen
Blood

7. Peripheral Vascular Diseases
Blood vessels that serve the outer parts of the body, particularly those of the hands and feet:
Peripheral blood vessels

8. Peripheral Vascular Diseases
Diseases of these vessels affect the parts of the body through which they pass.
Health of these vessels also influences heart function.

9. Heart Conditions Heart disease may sometimes be caused by an infection
Most heart disease develops because of changes in the blood vessels
As the openings of the blood vessels become smaller, the heart must work harder and harder to do its job of pumping blood to the body.