cardiac output
The volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute, calculated as stroke volume multiplied by heart rate.
Full Definition
Cardiac output (CO) represents the total volume of blood ejected by the left ventricle per minute, typically measured in liters per minute (L/min). Calculated as the product of stroke volume (amount of blood pumped per heartbeat) and heart rate, normal cardiac output ranges from 4-8 L/min in healthy adults. Cardiac index, which normalizes cardiac output to body surface area, provides a more accurate assessment across different patient sizes. Cardiac output can be measured through various methods including thermodilution, echocardiography, and bioimpedance, and serves as a critical hemodynamic parameter in critical care and heart failure management.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify units (L/min) and measurement method when documenting values.
In Context
- "Thermodilution measurement revealed a reduced cardiac output of 3.2 L/min, consistent with cardiogenic shock." — Intensive care unit assessment
- "The patient's cardiac output improved from 4.1 to 5.8 L/min following inotropic support." — Hemodynamic monitoring note