Describe the size, shape, location, and orientation of the heart in the thorax.

Size: fist, weighs less than a pound
Shape: broad, flat base (9cm) and apex points toward left hip
Location: frontal plane, between lungs, most mass is on left, but projects out more to right to balance the heart
Orientation: rests on superior surface of diaphragm, anterior to vertebral column, posterior to sternum

Coverings of the heart.

Fibrous Pericardium
Serous Pericardium

Fibrous Pericardium

Structure: superficial part of double-walled sac surrounding the heart; consists of dense connective tissue
Function: (1) protects heart (2) anchors it to surround structures (3) prevents overfilling of heart with blood

Serous Pericardium

parietal: lines internal surface of fibrous pericardium; attaches to large arteries exiting the heart
visceral (epicardium): thin membrane that continues over the external heart surface

Pericardial Cavity

between the parietal and visceral layers; slitlike cavity that contains a film of protein-rich fluid

Stroke Volume (SV)

Amount of blood ejected by one contraction of the heart.

End Diastolic Volume (EDV)

Amount of blood in the ventricle at the end of relaxation

End Systolic Volume (ESV)

Amount of blood in the ventricle at the end of contraction

Cardiac Output (CO)

The amount of blood ejected from the heart in one minute

Heart Rate (HR)

The frequency at which the heart beats