What is the effect of preload on cardiac output?
A) As preload increases, cardiac output increases.
B) As preload increases, cardiac output decreases.
C) As preload increases, cardiac output increases until it overstretches the ventricle and cardiac output decreases.
D) Increased preload has no effect on cardiac output.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the Frank-Starling law of the heart,if preload increases stroke volume,then cardiac output may increase.If,however,preload causes excessive left ventricular stretch,it can actually decrease cardiac output and may result in congestive heart failure.

What Is the Effect of Preload on Cardiac Output