Which layer of the pericardium is the visceral layer that directly covers the heart?

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Multiple Choice

Which layer of the pericardium is the visceral layer that directly covers the heart?

The layer that directly covers the heart is the epicardium. This is the visceral layer of the serous pericardium—the part that clings to the heart itself. The serous pericardium has two layers: a parietal layer that lines the fibrous pericardium and a visceral layer that rests on the heart. The term visceral pericardium refers to the same membrane as the epicardium, so the heart’s surface is the epicardium. Between the visceral (epicardial) and parietal layers is the pericardial cavity, containing a small amount of fluid to reduce friction during beating.

The layer that directly covers the heart is the epicardium. This is the visceral layer of the serous pericardium—the part that clings to the heart itself. The serous pericardium has two layers: a parietal layer that lines the fibrous pericardium and a visceral layer that rests on the heart. The term visceral pericardium refers to the same membrane as the epicardium, so the heart’s surface is the epicardium. Between the visceral (epicardial) and parietal layers is the pericardial cavity, containing a small amount of fluid to reduce friction during beating.

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