Circulatory System — ECG/EKG Terminology

Definition: The system that moves blood throughout the body, composed of the heart, arteries, capillaries, and veins. Transports oxygenated blood from the lungs via arteries and returns deoxygenated blood via veins.

Key Facts

• Includes heart, arteries, capillaries, and veins working as a closed transport network.
• Pulmonary and systemic circuits operate in series to oxygenate and distribute blood.
• Pump failure or vascular obstruction impairs tissue oxygen delivery.

ECG Connection: Rhythm disturbances can reduce effective circulation even when electrical complexes are present.

Why It Matters: Continuous telemetry helps detect rhythm causes of perfusion decline.