When caring for a patient with heart failure, which concept about cardiac output should the nurse keep in mind?
A) A faster heart rate increases the cardiac output.
B) A slower heart rate increases cardiac output.
C) Preload is the volume of blood in the ventricle after contraction.
D) Afterload is the pressure of the heart during ventricular filling.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A faster heart rate can increase cardiac output because cardiac output is the product of heart rate and stroke volume. However, if the heart rate is too fast, it can decrease filling time and reduce stroke volume, potentially decreasing cardiac output.

When Caring for a Patient with Heart Failure, Which Concept