The AV nodal delay

Question

The AV nodal delay

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The AV nodal delay is a brief pause between atrial contraction and ventricular contraction that allows the atria to completely empty their contents into the ventricles before the ventricles contract. This ensures optimal filling of the ventricles and efficient operation of the heart. Option B is incorrect because the AV nodal delay actually ensures that the ventricles contract after atrial systole. Option C is incorrect because the AV nodal delay has no effect on the ability of cardiac muscle to undergo tetanic contraction. Option D is incorrect because parasympathetic stimulation actually lengthens the AV nodal delay.

The AV Nodal Delay