National League for Nursing (NLN PAX) Practice Exam

The correct answer details the pathway blood takes as it circulates through the heart and lungs, accurately reflecting the function of the cardiovascular system. Blood begins its journey in the right atrium, where deoxygenated blood from the body returns. From the right atrium, the blood flows into the right ventricle, which then pumps it to the lungs through the pulmonary arteries for oxygenation.

Once the blood reaches the lungs, it undergoes gas exchange where it picks up oxygen and releases carbon dioxide. After this process, the now oxygen-rich blood returns to the heart, entering the left atrium. Subsequently, the blood moves into the left ventricle, which is responsible for pumping oxygenated blood throughout the body through the aorta.

This sequence outlines the systemic and pulmonary circulation pathways that are fundamental to understanding cardiovascular physiology, emphasizing how the heart chambers work together to facilitate the flow of blood and ensure proper oxygen delivery to the body.