Cardiovascular System

The cardiovascular system includes the heart, blood, and vessels which form a continuous, closed circulation.
The cardiovascular system provides nutrients to and removes wastes from the tissues.
The functions of blood include transport, regulation, defense, and homeostasis.
Blood transports gases, nutrients, hormones, and wastes.
The blood regulates the pH and ionic composition of interstitial fluids.
Blood cells and proteins transported in the blood defend against toxins and pathogens.
Blood coagulation minimizes fluid loss in injury.
The blood helps stabilizes body temperature by redistribution of blood flow.