Cardiac output
The volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute, calculated as stroke volume multiplied by heart rate. Normal range is 4-8 L/min at rest.
Full Definition
Cardiac output is the total volume of blood ejected by the ventricle per minute, representing the heart's pumping efficiency and the body's circulatory capacity. It is calculated as the product of stroke volume (blood ejected per heartbeat) and heart rate. Normal cardiac output at rest ranges from 4-8 liters per minute, varying with body size, age, and physical condition. Cardiac output can be measured invasively using thermodilution techniques with pulmonary artery catheters or non-invasively using echocardiography, bioimpedance, or other methods. Reduced cardiac output is a hallmark of heart failure and cardiogenic shock.
Usage
Usage note: Always include units (L/min) when documenting cardiac output values.
In Context
- "The patient's cardiac output measured 2.8 L/min, indicating severe cardiogenic shock requiring inotropic support." — Intensive care unit documentation
- "Echocardiography estimated a cardiac output of 5.2 L/min, which is within normal limits." — Non-invasive cardiac assessment