The nurse is caring for a patient who has a history of heart disease. What factor should the nurse identify as possibly contributing to a decrease in cardiac output?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cardiac output is computed by multiplying the stroke volume by the heart rate. Cardiac output can be affected by changes in either stroke volume or heart rate, such as a rate of $54 \mathrm{bpm}$. An increase in preload will lead to an increase in stroke volume. A pulse oximetry reading of $94 \%$ does not indicate hypoxemia, as hypoxia can decrease contractility. Transitioning from standing to sitting would more likely increase rather than decrease cardiac output.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Has a History