1. What is Cardiac Output?

Cardiac Output (CO) is the volume of blood the heart pumps per minute. It is a crucial hemodynamic parameter that indicates how effectively the heart is functioning and delivering oxygenated blood to the body's tissues.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Cardiac Output equation:

Where:

• \( CO \) — Cardiac Output (L/min)
• \( HR \) — Heart Rate (beats per minute)
• \( SV \) — Stroke Volume (ml/beat)

Explanation: The equation calculates the total blood volume pumped by the heart each minute by multiplying the number of heartbeats per minute by the volume of blood pumped with each beat.

3. Importance of Cardiac Output Calculation

Details: Accurate Cardiac Output measurement is essential for assessing cardiovascular function, diagnosing heart conditions, monitoring critically ill patients, and guiding treatment decisions in cardiac and intensive care settings.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter Heart Rate in beats per minute (bpm) and Stroke Volume in milliliters per beat (ml/beat). All values must be valid positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal Cardiac Output range?
A: Normal Cardiac Output ranges from 4-8 L/min in healthy adults at rest, but varies based on body size, age, and fitness level.

Q2: How does exercise affect Cardiac Output?
A: During exercise, Cardiac Output can increase up to 4-5 times the resting value due to increased Heart Rate and Stroke Volume.

Q3: What factors can affect Stroke Volume?
A: Stroke Volume is influenced by preload, afterload, contractility, and heart valve function.

Q4: Are there other methods to measure Cardiac Output?
A: Yes, other methods include thermodilution, Fick principle, echocardiography, and pulse contour analysis.

Q5: When is Cardiac Output measurement most important?
A: It's crucial in managing heart failure, shock, during major surgery, and in intensive care settings where precise hemodynamic monitoring is required.