Easy Way to Remember Blood Flow Through the Heart

Introduction

• Understanding the blood flow through the heart is essential in nursing school.
• Visualization of how blood flows through the heart helps in memorizing the process.
• The process involves 12 steps: 6 on the right side and 6 on the left side.
• Visual aids can be helpful for memorization.

Blood Flow Through the Heart in 12 Steps

Right Side of the Heart

• Goal: To deliver un-oxygenated blood to the lungs for oxygenation.
• Steps:
  1. Un-oxygenated blood enters through the Superior and Inferior Vena Cava.
  2. Blood moves into the Right Atrium.
  3. It passes through the Tricuspid Valve.
  4. It enters the Right Ventricle.
  5. Blood is pushed through the Pulmonic Valve.
  6. It travels via the Pulmonary Artery to the lungs.
• Study Tip: Remember that pulmonic structures are on the right side due to their association with the lungs.

Left Side of the Heart

• Goal: To distribute oxygenated blood from the lungs to the body.
• Steps: 7. Oxygen-rich blood enters through the Pulmonary Vein. 8. Blood moves into the Left Atrium. 9. It flows through the Bicuspid (Mitral) Valve. 10. It enters the Left Ventricle. 11. Blood is pushed through the Aortic Valve. 12. It travels via the Aorta to the rest of the body.
• Study Tip: Use the phrase "First always try, before you buy" to remember the order - tricuspid valve first, then bicuspid. Remember atriums (A) are above ventricles (V) in the alphabet.

ECG/EKG Study Guide and Workbook

• ECG/EKG Interpretation Study Guide by Nurse Sarah:
  • Contains 100 pages with 26 ECG rhythm breakdowns.
  • Includes 51 ECG rhythm analysis practice problems and 100 comprehensive questions.
  • Available as an eBook or physical copy.

Additional Resources

• Quiz: Test your knowledge on the blood flow of the heart with an online quiz.