The atrioventricular node (AV node) is a crucial part of the heart's electrical conduction system. Located between the atria and ventricles, it acts as a gatekeeper, controlling the electrical signals that travel from the upper chambers to the lower chambers. This ensures that the heart beats in a coordinated manner, allowing for efficient blood flow. When the sinoatrial node (SA node) sends an electrical impulse, the AV node briefly delays it before passing it on to the ventricles. This delay allows the atria to fully contract and pump blood into the ventricles before they contract, maintaining proper heart function.