What is the correct sequence of blood flow through the heart?

The correct sequence of blood flow through the heart begins in the right atrium, where deoxygenated blood returns from the body. From the right atrium, blood passes through the tricuspid valve into the right ventricle. Once the right ventricle contracts, it sends the blood through the pulmonic valve into the pulmonary arteries, which carry the blood to the lungs for oxygenation.

After passing through the lungs and becoming oxygenated, the blood returns to the heart through the pulmonary veins into the left atrium. It then moves through the mitral valve into the left ventricle, where it is pumped through the aortic valve into the aorta. This sequence effectively illustrates the pathway of blood circulation within the heart, ensuring that oxygen-depleted blood is directed to the lungs and oxygen-rich blood is delivered to the body.

Understanding this flow is fundamental in the study of cardiovascular physiology and is essential for recognizing how the heart functions efficiently in maintaining proper circulation, which is critical for any paramedic.