What type of blood vessel carries blood away from the heart?

Arteries are the blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart. This is a key function of the circulatory system, as arteries transport oxygenated blood (with the exception of pulmonary arteries, which carry deoxygenated blood to the lungs) to various parts of the body. The structure of arteries allows them to withstand high pressure from the heart's pumping action, as they have thick, elastic walls that can expand and contract.

Understanding the role of arteries is essential in emergency medical scenarios, as various conditions may affect blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues. Recognizing that veins return blood to the heart, capillaries serve as the sites for gas and nutrient exchange, and venules are smaller vessels that collect blood from capillaries, reinforces the distinct functions of each type of blood vessel. This knowledge is critical for EMTs and healthcare providers in assessing and managing circulatory issues.