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Cardiac Anatomy & Physiology

4.4 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Based on 253 ratings
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Mena Abdelsayed

This is the most comprehensive course for cardiac anatomy & physiology. Graduate and undergraduate students in the health-care or life sciences fields will encounter a thorough overview of the anatomical features of the heart and the physiological mechanisms underlying a normal cardiac cycle. These mechanisms are covered in depth. Students will get an exhaustive tour of the heart: 1.) external and internal anatomy of heart, 2.) coronary arteries and veins, 3.) cardiac conduction system, 4.) autonomic innervation of the heart and its role in regulating blood pressure, 5.) the heart as a gland or an endocrine organ and the hormones cardiac cells release, 6.) basic mechanisms of cardiac electrophysiology beginning with the cellular biophysics of ion channels all the way to action potentials in pacemaker and muscle cells of the heart, 7.) autonomic regulation of chronotropy, inotropy, dromotropy, and contractility, 8.) basics of the ECG, including vector orientation and the mean electrical axis, 9.) and the effect of preload, afterload, and contractility on the force-length, force-velocity, and pressure-volume relationships in the heart. By the end of this course, students will develop a solid foundation in basic cardiology, enabling them to apply what they've learned to more advanced applications.

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What's inside

Learning objective

Understand the intricate mechanisms underlying cardiac excitation and contraction

Syllabus

Introduction
Introduction - General Features of Adult Human Heart
Cardiac External
Cardiac Arteries
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a comprehensive overview of cardiac anatomy and physiology, which is essential knowledge for students in healthcare and life sciences
Explores the autonomic regulation of chronotropy, inotropy, dromotropy, and contractility, which are key concepts in understanding cardiac function
Covers the basics of ECG, including vector orientation and the mean electrical axis, which are fundamental skills for interpreting cardiac electrical activity
Examines the effect of preload, afterload, and contractility on the force-length, force-velocity, and pressure-volume relationships in the heart
Requires learners to understand the cellular biophysics of ion channels, which may require a prior foundation in physics and chemistry
Teaches cardiac electrophysiology, which is a complex topic that may require learners to have a strong foundation in mathematics and physics

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive cardiac anatomy & physiology

According to learners, this course offers a largely positive experience, providing a very detailed and thorough overview of cardiac anatomy and physiology. Many students, particularly those in or preparing for healthcare and life sciences programs, found it to be an excellent resource for building a solid foundation. Key strengths mentioned include the clarity of explanations, the knowledgeable instructor, and well-structured modules. Specific sections like anatomy illustrations and the ECG explanation were highlighted as particularly helpful. While some found the depth and pace challenging without prior background, the consensus indicates it's ideal for its intended audience and covers the syllabus comprehensively.
Anatomy and ECG modules particularly praised.
"the anatomy sections were well-illustrated."
"The ECG section was particularly helpful and explained complex ideas simply."
"The anatomical details were excellent."
Highly suitable for students in healthcare fields.
"perfect for my nursing program."
"Good preparation for medical school."
"As a pre-med student, this course filled in so many gaps..."
"I'm a biology major, and this course was exactly what I needed."
Material is presented clearly and understandably.
"The explanations were clear, and the anatomy sections were well-illustrated."
"The instructor is knowledgeable and presents the material clearly."
"The ECG section was particularly helpful and explained complex ideas simply."
Offers a very thorough overview of the heart.
"This course was incredibly detailed and thorough, perfect for my nursing program."
"A solid foundation in cardiac A&P. The modules are comprehensive."
"Excellent course! Covered everything listed in the syllabus in great detail."
"Very comprehensive course. Good for reviewing and solidifying cardiac knowledge."
Presentation style may not always be engaging.
"Some lectures felt a bit dry, but the content quality is undeniable."
May be challenging without some science background.
"The course is very in-depth, maybe too much so for a complete beginner. I struggled... without prior biology knowledge."
"Some parts, especially the electrophysiology, were quite challenging..."
"Good content, but maybe requires some background."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Cardiac Anatomy & Physiology with these activities:
Review Basic Anatomy and Physiology
Reinforce foundational knowledge of general anatomy and physiology to better understand the specific details of the heart.
Browse courses on Anatomy and Physiology
Show steps
  • Review key anatomical terms and concepts.
  • Study the major organ systems and their functions.
  • Complete practice quizzes on basic anatomy and physiology.
Review 'Netter's Atlas of Human Anatomy'
Visually reinforce anatomical concepts of the heart using a detailed anatomical atlas.
View Netter Atlas of Human Anatomy: Classic Regional... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Study the illustrations of the heart in Netter's Atlas.
  • Compare the illustrations to the anatomical structures discussed in the course.
  • Use the atlas as a reference when studying the heart's anatomy.
Create a Diagram of the Cardiac Conduction System
Solidify understanding of the cardiac conduction system by creating a detailed diagram.
Show steps
  • Research the components of the cardiac conduction system.
  • Draw a diagram illustrating the pathway of electrical impulses.
  • Label each component of the conduction system.
  • Explain the function of each component in the diagram.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice ECG Interpretation
Improve ECG interpretation skills through repetitive practice.
Browse courses on ECG
Show steps
  • Find ECG strips online or in textbooks.
  • Identify the different waves and intervals on the ECG.
  • Determine the heart rate and rhythm.
  • Look for signs of abnormalities, such as arrhythmias or ischemia.
Review 'Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology'
Deepen understanding of cardiac physiology using a comprehensive medical physiology textbook.
View Guyton & Hall Physiology Review (Guyton... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on cardiac physiology in Guyton and Hall.
  • Take notes on the key concepts and mechanisms.
  • Relate the information to the topics covered in the course.
Create a Presentation on a Specific Cardiac Topic
Consolidate knowledge by creating and delivering a presentation on a specific cardiac topic.
Show steps
  • Choose a specific topic related to cardiac anatomy or physiology.
  • Research the topic thoroughly using reliable sources.
  • Create a presentation with clear and concise slides.
  • Practice delivering the presentation.
Tutor Other Students in Cardiac Physiology
Reinforce your understanding by explaining cardiac physiology concepts to other students.
Show steps
  • Offer to tutor other students who are struggling with the material.
  • Prepare explanations and examples to help them understand the concepts.
  • Answer their questions and provide feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Cardiac Anatomy & Physiology will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Cardiovascular Physiologist
A cardiovascular physiologist studies the heart and blood vessels, focusing on their function, control, and how they respond to exercise and disease. This course is a great guide for understanding how the heart functions as it delves into the features of the heart. The comprehensive material ranging from the anatomical features of the heart, to the physiological mechanisms underlying the cardiac cycle makes this course an excellent fit. This course will allow one who seeks to enter this field to gain a strong foundation in the principles and mechanisms of cardiac function, essential for a cardiovascular physiologist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cardiovascular Physiologist
Cardiovascular Perfusionist
A cardiovascular perfusionist is a specialized healthcare professional who operates the heart-lung machine during open-heart surgeries and other procedures. This course's in-depth exploration of cardiac anatomy and mechanisms is directly applicable to understanding how the heart functions under normal and abnormal conditions. The understanding of cardiac physiology, electrical activity, and mechanics that you will get from taking this course helps to build a strong foundation for the knowledge a cardiovascular perfusionist uses daily. Those seeking to master this role should take this course to learn the underlying principles of cardiac function.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cardiovascular Perfusionist
Cardiac Sonographer
A cardiac sonographer uses ultrasound technology to create images of the heart, which are used to diagnose heart conditions. This course, which details the cardiac anatomy, the cardiac cycle, and the heart's conduction system, builds a strong conceptual background that is essential for this role. A cardiac sonographer needs a comprehensive understanding of the heart to interpret imaging correctly, and this course is the most comprehensive for learning these mechanisms. Those entering this field can use the materials from this course to build a strong foundation in basic cardiology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cardiac Sonographer
Physician Assistant Cardiovascular
A physician assistant in cardiovascular medicine assists physicians in the diagnosis and management of heart conditions. This role requires a solid grasp of cardiac anatomy and physiology, areas which are deeply explored in this course. This course's exhaustive tour of the heart provides a robust understanding of its mechanics and function, which is essential in clinical practice. Taking this course is a great way for future physician assistants to build a strong knowledge base in basic cardiology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physician Assistant Cardiovascular
Biomedical Engineer
A biomedical engineer designs and develops new technologies for medical applications, including devices for the heart. This course's thorough coverage of cardiac anatomy and physiology helps to understand the complexities of the heart, which is critical for the design process. A biomedical engineer working with cardiovascular devices will find the deep dive into cardiac mechanisms and electrophysiology, from this course, to be invaluable. Biomedical engineers should take this course to develop a foundation to build upon.
See salaries and explore the career path for Biomedical Engineer
Medical Researcher
Medical researchers conduct studies to improve our understanding of diseases, including those affecting the heart. This course is a comprehensive resource covering the cardiac cycle in depth. This information can be invaluable for medical research as it provides important details on cardiac function. This course's content will help those entering medical research to build a foundation for their work, which could involve studying the underlying mechanisms of heart function.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Researcher
Registered Nurse Cardiovascular
A registered nurse working in cardiovascular care provides direct patient care, monitors vital signs, and administers medications. This course provides a thorough overview of the anatomical features of the heart and the physiological mechanisms underlying a normal cardiac cycle. This knowledge can be helpful in the daily work of a registered nurse. An in depth understanding of the heart, as offered by this course, can help a registered nurse understand the cardiac-related issues of their patients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Registered Nurse Cardiovascular
Exercise Physiologist
An exercise physiologist designs and implements exercise programs for clinical populations, often including individuals with cardiovascular disease. This course provides a thorough overview of the anatomical features of the heart and the physiological mechanisms underlying a normal cardiac cycle. This background knowledge helps the exercise physiologist better understand the effects of physical activity on the heart. Exercise physiologists can benefit from this course as they develop their foundation in cardiovascular science.
See salaries and explore the career path for Exercise Physiologist
Medical Device Sales Representative
A medical device sales representative is a professional that sells medical equipment to healthcare professionals. This course's wealth of information about the heart and the cardiac cycle is beneficial for those that work in this field. A medical device sales representative who will market devices to cardiologists should take this course to learn about the heart, and to better understand the ways that their products can help doctors.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Device Sales Representative
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
A pharmaceutical sales representative promotes and sells medications to healthcare professionals. This course's thorough overview of the heart's anatomy and function can be beneficial for selling medications related to cardiovascular conditions. The detailed information provided by this course on the cardiac cycle will allow a pharmaceutical sales representative to better understand the needs of the professionals they serve. For this reason, it may be useful to take this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Medical Writer
A medical writer produces written content about medicine and healthcare for a variety of audiences. This course may be a particularly good resource for those who wish to write about the heart and cardiac health. The comprehensive survey of the heart's functionality, offered by this course, may be beneficial as it provides a deep dive into its mechanisms. The material presented may be useful when medical writers research topics about the heart.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Writer
Health Educator
Health educators teach individuals and communities about health and wellness. This course provides a thorough overview of cardiac anatomy and physiology, which may be useful for health educators, especially for those who focus on cardiovascular health. The knowledge gained from this course can help in creating educational materials about the heart, and in explaining heart functions. While not immediately applicable, this course may build a helpful foundation for teaching people about heart health.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Educator
Clinical Research Associate
Clinical research associates are responsible for monitoring clinical trials, including those involving cardiac patients or treatments. This course provides an overview of the mechanisms of the heart, which is helpful for understanding studies that involve its functionality. While a clinical research associate does not need to have a deep understanding of the heart, they do need to understand the basic mechanisms. Taking this course might be useful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Clinical Research Associate
Medical Illustrator
A medical illustrator creates visuals for textbooks and other medical publications. While this course may not directly involve the creation of medical images, it provides a deep understanding of the anatomy of the heart. Those entering this field may find this course helpful, as they need to have a firm understanding of the mechanisms of the heart in order to accurately represent it. Taking this course may be useful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Illustrator
Healthcare Administrator
A healthcare administrator manages and coordinates healthcare services within a medical facility. While this role is not directly related to the specifics of cardiac anatomy and physiology, this course may offer some background knowledge in the medical field, specifically with regard to the heart. This knowledge of cardiac functionality might be useful to administrators in larger healthcare systems. Those who wish to work in the healthcare field may find it a useful tool.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Administrator

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Cardiac Anatomy & Physiology.
Cover image
Netter Atlas of Human Anatomy: Classic Regional...
Save
Netter's Atlas comprehensive visual guide to human anatomy. It provides detailed illustrations of the heart's external and internal structures, coronary arteries and veins, and the cardiac conduction system. valuable reference for visualizing the anatomical features discussed in the course. It is commonly used by medical students and healthcare professionals.
Netter Atlas of Human Anatomy: Classic Regional...
Paperback
$$$
Netter Atlas of Human Anatomy International Edition...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Guyton & Hall Physiology Review
Save
Guyton and Hall widely used textbook for medical physiology. It provides in-depth explanations of the physiological mechanisms underlying cardiac function, including cardiac electrophysiology, autonomic control, and the cardiac cycle. valuable resource for understanding the physiological principles discussed in the course. It is commonly used by medical students and healthcare professionals.
Guyton & Hall Physiology Review (Guyton Physiology)
Paperback
$$

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Rating
4.4 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Effort
4 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Mena Abdelsayed
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a comprehensive overview of cardiac anatomy and physiology, which is essential knowledge for students in healthcare and life sciences
Explores the autonomic regulation of chronotropy, inotropy, dromotropy, and contractility, which are key concepts in understanding cardiac function
Covers the basics of ECG, including vector orientation and the mean electrical axis, which are fundamental skills for interpreting cardiac electrical activity
Examines the effect of preload, afterload, and contractility on the force-length, force-velocity, and pressure-volume relationships in the heart
Requires learners to understand the cellular biophysics of ion channels, which may require a prior foundation in physics and chemistry
Teaches cardiac electrophysiology, which is a complex topic that may require learners to have a strong foundation in mathematics and physics
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