What does the term "ventricle" refer to in the context of the heart?

The term "ventricle" refers specifically to one of the two lower chambers of the heart, which are responsible for pumping blood out of the heart to various parts of the body. The heart has four chambers in total—two atria (upper chambers) and two ventricles (lower chambers). The ventricles play a critical role in the circulatory system; the right ventricle pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs for oxygenation, while the left ventricle pumps oxygenated blood to the rest of the body.

Understanding the structure and function of the heart is crucial for anyone studying telemetry or cardiology, as monitoring ventricular function can provide important insights into a patient's cardiovascular health. The distinction between the upper chambers (atria) and lower chambers (ventricles) further highlights the specific roles these sections play in the heart's overall function.