What is cardiac output?

The concept of cardiac output is fundamental in understanding how effectively the heart is functioning as a pump. Cardiac output is defined as the volume of blood that the heart pumps in one minute, reflecting the overall efficiency of the heart in supplying blood to the body. This measurement is crucial because it provides insights into the heart's performance, as well as the body's ability to meet its metabolic needs.

A normal cardiac output is vital for ensuring adequate perfusion of organs and tissues, which is essential for maintaining health. It is influenced by factors such as heart rate and stroke volume (the amount of blood pumped with each heartbeat). By assessing cardiac output, healthcare professionals can evaluate cardiac function and diagnose potential issues related to heart disease, shock, and other critical conditions.

Understanding cardiac output helps in managing patient care, especially in situations where fluid status, cardiac performance, and overall hemodynamics are of concern.