What is the cardiac output of a patient with a heart rate of 80 beats/min and a stroke volume of 75 mL/beat?

To determine the cardiac output, one must use the formula that relates heart rate and stroke volume. Cardiac output is calculated by multiplying the heart rate (in beats per minute) by the stroke volume (in milliliters per beat).

In this case, the heart rate is 80 beats per minute and the stroke volume is 75 mL per beat. Performing the calculation:

Cardiac Output = Heart Rate × Stroke Volume

Cardiac Output = 80 beats/min × 75 mL/beat

This results in:

Cardiac Output = 6000 mL/min

Since 6000 mL/min is equivalent to 6 L/min, the calculation confirms the correct answer.

Understanding how cardiac output is affected by both heart rate and stroke volume is crucial for assessing cardiovascular health, as it indicates how efficiently the heart is pumping blood to meet the body’s needs.