When ventricular function curves are performed on a patient with a suspected failing left ventricle, how does cardiac output typically change as the pulmonary capillary wedge pressure increases?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a failing left ventricle, as pulmonary capillary wedge pressure increases, cardiac output initially increases due to the Frank-Starling mechanism but eventually decreases as the heart becomes unable to handle the increased preload, leading to heart failure.

When Ventricular Function Curves Are Performed on a Patient with a Suspected