Which of the following is a compensatory mechanism that comes into play in order to maintain the cardiac output for the failing heart
A)decreased myocardial contractility
B)increased vagal stimulation
C)increased sympathetic stimulation
D)peripheral vasodilation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Increased sympathetic stimulation is a compensatory mechanism that comes into play in order to maintain the cardiac output for the failing heart. This is achieved by increasing heart rate, increasing myocardial contractility, and increasing peripheral vasoconstriction. Decreased myocardial contractility (A) would further decrease the cardiac output, while increased vagal stimulation (B) would lead to a decrease in heart rate and cardiac output, and peripheral vasodilation (D) would decrease peripheral resistance and lead to a drop in blood pressure, further worsening the situation for the failing heart.

Which of the Following Is a Compensatory Mechanism That Comes