1. What is Cardiac Output?

Cardiac output (CO) is the volume of blood the heart pumps per minute. It is a fundamental measure of cardiovascular function, calculated as the product of heart rate (HR) and stroke volume (SV).

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 (L)

Explanation: The equation calculates the total volume of blood pumped by the heart each minute, which is essential for assessing cardiovascular health and function.

3. Importance of Cardiac Output Calculation

Details: Accurate cardiac output estimation is crucial for evaluating heart function, diagnosing cardiovascular conditions, monitoring patients during surgery or critical care, and guiding treatment decisions for heart failure and other cardiac disorders.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter heart rate in beats per minute (bpm) and stroke volume in liters (L). All values must be valid (HR > 0, SV > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal cardiac output value?
A: Normal cardiac output ranges from 4-8 L/min in healthy adults at rest, but varies based on body size, fitness level, and metabolic demands.

Q2: How does exercise affect cardiac output?
A: During exercise, cardiac output can increase 4-5 times above resting values due to increases in both heart rate and stroke volume.

Q3: What factors influence stroke volume?
A: Stroke volume is affected by preload (ventricular filling), afterload (resistance to ejection), and myocardial contractility.

Q4: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: This simple formula provides an estimate. More precise measurements may require specialized techniques like thermodilution or echocardiography.

Q5: How is cardiac output related to blood pressure?
A: Blood pressure is the product of cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance (BP = CO × SVR).