HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology Related

Review HESI A2 Practice Test Anatomy and Physiology related questions and content

Which type of muscle is found in the heart?

  • A. Smooth muscle
  • B. Cardiac muscle
  • C. Skeletal muscle
  • D. Striated muscle
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Cardiac muscle is a specialized type of muscle found only in the heart. It is responsible for the rhythmic contractions that pump blood throughout the body. Unlike smooth and skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle has its own unique structure and function to meet the demands of the heart's continuous pumping action. Smooth muscle is found in the walls of internal organs and blood vessels, not in the heart. Skeletal muscle is attached to bones and helps in movement but is not found in the heart. Striated muscle is a broader term that includes both cardiac and skeletal muscle, but specifically, cardiac muscle refers to the muscle tissue of the heart.