Introduction to Chapter 19

Blood vessels are sometimes compared to a system of pipes with blood circulating in them, but this analogy is only a starting point. Unlike rigid pipes, blood vessels are dynamic structures that pulsate, constrict, relax, and even proliferate (multiply). In this chapter, we examine the structure and function of these important circulatory passageways.

The blood vessels of the body form a closed delivery system that begins and ends at the heart. The idea that blood circulates in the body dates back to the 1620s with the inspired experiments of William Harvey, an English physician. Prior to that time, people thought, as proposed by the ancient Greek physician Galen, that blood moved through the body like an ocean tide, first moving out from the heart and then ebbing back in the same vessels.

Module-level Objectives

As a result of the instruction and activities in this module, you will be able to:

Describe the three layers that typically form the wall of a blood vessel, and state the function of each. (COs: #3, 15)
Define vasoconstriction and vasodilation. (CO: #5)
Compare and contrast the structure and function of the three types of arteries. (CO: #6)
Describe the structure and function of a capillary bed. (COs: #3, 12)
Describe the structure and function of veins, and explain how veins differ from arteries. (COs: #3, 15)
Explain the importance of vascular anastomoses. (COs: #3, 6)
Define blood flow, blood pressure, and resistance, and explain the relationships between these factors. (COs: #5, 6)
Describe how blood pressure differs in the arteries, capillaries, and veins. (COs: #5, 6)
List and explain the factors that influence blood pressure, and describe how blood pressure is regulated. (COs: #5, 6)
Define hypertension. Describe its manifestations and consequences. (COs: #7, 12)
Define circulatory shock. List several possible causes. (COs: #7, 12)
Explain how blood flow through tissues is regulated in general and in specific organs. (COs: #4, 12)
Trace the pathway of blood through the pulmonary circuit, and state the importance of this special circulation. (COs: #3, 4, 12)
Describe the general functions of the systemic circuit. (COs: #3, 4, 12)

(CO: Course Objective.)

To Do

All activities in this module are required unless otherwise noted. If you have questions or ideas, before contacting the instructor, please post to Discussions (under the appropriate thread). Complete the following:

Watch video clips & animations
Review the presentation/s and/or the notes/outline
Read the text
Listen to audio recordings (MP3s, lectures) when available (as needed)
View the Chapter Discussion thread and Engage if you have questions or comments (optional)
Complete the MAP Lab/s (as assigned)
Engage in/Complete assigned Post-Lab Activities (as assigned)
Complete the Quiz (as assigned)
Practice in the MAP Study Area

(MAP = Mastering A&P)

Readings

The following text-based resources have been selected to support your success on course assignments and to meet the objectives for this module.

Text: pages 706-765
Lab Manual: Anatomy of Blood Vessels, Cardiovascular Physiology: Blood Pressure & Pulse Determinations

Search for the title of the exercise in the (printed) Lab Manual (if using), as page numbers vary by version.

Instructional Materials

These instructional materials are designed to support your success on course assignments and in meeting the objectives for this module.

Presentations: Blood Vessels_PPT_A, Blood Vessels_PPT_B, Blood Vessels_PPT_C

Notes: Blood Vessels_Outline, Cardiovascular Sys_Outline_blanks

Media: Videos are included in your MAP Lab Activities, but here is an additional link that may be helpful when studying Blood Pressure and Korotkoff Sounds.

Assignments

Complete the following assignments by the date and time indicated on each assignment page.

MAP Lab (Anatomy of Blood Vessels)
MAP Lab (Cardiophysiology: BP & Pulse)

Select the Next button to proceed.